Tom Hiddleston takes you on behind-the-scenes tour of The Essex Serpent

Hiddleston and Homeland star Claire Danes take the lead roles in The Essex Serpent cast of Will Ransome and Cora Seaborne respectively, while Frank Dillane (Fear the Walking Dead), Hayley Squires (I, Daniel Blake) and Clémence Poésy (The Tunnel) also star.

The six-part miniseries was filmed on location during the winter, as Hiddleston explains that a "wintry atmosphere" was needed, but the production moved to an indoor soundstage as the weather brightened up.

The Enfield-based studio is a sight to behold, including a detailed reconstruction of the Essex home and landscape used in the initial weeks of filming. Hiddleston has more fascinating insights to offer in the video below:

Hiddleston explains: "As an actor, it's so inspiring because you walk into a space – you've imagined the world in your mind, but it's been built for you – and all you have to do is inhabit it. It's a real gift from the designers."

The clip gives you a sense of the attention to detail as Hiddleston picks out two of his favourite props, which might not even be noticed in the finished show, yet play a real role in breathing life into the world of The Essex Serpent.

The first episode of The Essex Serpent will air at the BFI & Radio Times Television Festival 2022, as well as a panel discussion with the author of the original book Sarah Perry, director Clio Barnard and cast members. Tickets are on sale now here.

• Read more: The Essex Serpent showcases Essex, but not as you know it

The Essex Serpent premieres on Apple TV+ on Friday 13th May 2022 – sign up to Apple TV+ here. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight.

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