Arrow is primarily filmed in the beautiful province of British Columbia, Canada. The production team has chosen various locations in and around Vancouver to bring the world of Star City to life. Here are some of the cities and specific filming locations used in the show:
1. Hatley Castle, Royal Roads, Colwood, British Columbia, Canada (Queen Mansion):
Hatley Castle, located in Colwood near Victoria, serves as the exterior of the Queen Mansion in Arrow. The castle’s grand architecture and stunning grounds provide the perfect backdrop for the opulent residence of the Queen family. It’s fascinating to see how the castle is transformed into the iconic mansion seen on the show.
2. Squamish, British Columbia, Canada (Lian Yu):
The island of Lian Yu, where Oliver Queen is stranded and goes through intense training, is portrayed by various locations in Squamish. This scenic coastal town provides the rugged landscapes and dense forests that represent the isolated and treacherous island. It’s incredible to witness the transformation of Squamish into the remote and perilous Lian Yu.
3. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada:
Vancouver itself serves as a major filming location for Arrow, providing a diverse range of urban settings for the show. The city’s streets, skyscrapers, and waterfront areas often double as the bustling Star City. Vancouver’s distinct architecture and modern vibe contribute to the gritty and realistic feel of the show’s urban scenes.
4. Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada:
Coquitlam, a city located in the Greater Vancouver area, has also been used as a filming location for Arrow. Specific sites in Coquitlam have been utilized to depict various locations within Star City, showcasing the city’s versatility in recreating different parts of the fictional universe.
5. Vancouver Film Studios, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (studio):
In addition to filming on location, Arrow also utilizes Vancouver Film Studios for interior shots and other scenes that require controlled environments. This state-of-the-art studio facility offers soundstages and production resources to bring the show’s intricate sets and action sequences to life.
As someone who has visited Vancouver and explored its surrounding areas, it’s fascinating to see how the city’s distinct locations are transformed into the world of Arrow. The show takes advantage of the region’s natural beauty, from the lush forests of Squamish to the stunning architecture of Hatley Castle. It’s a testament to the versatility of British Columbia as a filming destination.
Arrow has made excellent use of various cities and locations in British Columbia to create the visually immersive world of Star City. The combination of real-life settings and studio facilities has allowed the show to deliver captivating visuals and contribute to its overall success.