Located in Port Hope, Ontario, Penryn Park was used as the ladies college in Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel, as well as Margaret Lloyd’s home in the Road to Avonlea episode, “The Witches of Avonlea”.

In 1860, the estate was built as a summer home on Lake Ontario for a rich family from Pittsburgh.  The design of the house is another example of Strawberry Hill Gothic architecture, which was an English revival of medieval-influenced architecture in the 19th century.  Elements of Strawberry Hill Gothic can also be seen in the interior shots of the Harris estate, which was filmed at Dundurn Castle in Hamilton (please see here).

Stawberry Hill Gothic is known for its Gothic motifs and a design concept that somewhat exaggerates the look of an English Manor House.  It was very popular in its time and got the name “Strawberry” because the style was first seen on Strawberry Hill, in London.

In The Sequel, viewers will remember the grand staircase of the college, which was “suffused with ornamentation,” Kevin Sullivan writes in Beyond Green Gables.  “It looks every bit the part of a baronial estate with its carved oak banister and excess of paintings.”

Penryn Park’s authentic Victorian setting was a fitting location for scenes in which Anne must come to terms with the aristocratic airs emanating from her students.

Be sure to check back soon for more blogs about other memorable filming locations!

Source:  Beyond Green Gables