A TELEVISION drama, described as “one of the most ambitious” ever undertaken in the UK, has been filmed at some of North Yorkshire most iconic locations.

Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell will premier on BBC One on Sunday, May 17 at 9pm. The epic, seven-part drama was filmed over four months in the region after investment from the Yorkshire Content Fund. It is the largest-scale production Screen Yorkshire has ever invested in.

Based on the bestselling novel by Susanna Clarke, the story opens in York at the beginning of the 19th century, when the people of England no longer believe in magic.

This all changes when the reclusive Mr Norrell causes the statues of York Minster to speak and move, starting a new enthusiasm for magic. With a little persuasion and help from his he goes to London to help the government in the war against Napoleon. There Norrell summons a fairy to bring Lady Pole back from the dead.

It was filmed over four months in Yorkshire at locations including York Minster and St Williams College next to it, as well as The Shambles, Lady Peckett’s Yard, College Street and Fountains Abbey near Ripon.

The production also filmed in West Yorkshire, Canada and Croatia.

It stars Eddie Marsan from Best of Men and Bertie Carvel in the title roles, as well as Samuel West, from Mr Selfridge, Charlotte Riley from Wuthering Heights and Paul Kaye from Game Of Thrones.

It is the second time in just two years landmarks in York and North Yorkshire have featured in a major television drama.

In 2013 Death Comes to Pemberley was shot at locations including the Treasurer’s House in York, as well as Castle Howard in Ryedale.

Hugo Heppell, head of investments at Screen Yorkshire adds: "Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell is epic television in every sense.

“Rooted in Yorkshire, infused with a Yorkshire sensibility, and shot extensively in the region, we couldn't be more proud of this spectacular series and everybody involved in its production."

Producer Nick Hirschkorn said: ''The perfect combination of stunning locations, a healthy crew base, affordable rates and unwavering support from Screen Yorkshire, made basing Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell in Leeds and York for 16 weeks of filming a very easy decision to make.

“I look forward to returning to capitalise on all the wonderful relationships that were built during this large and complex production.''