**Richmond: The Filming Hub of ‘Ted Lasso’ and a Sanctuary for Fans**
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The picturesque town of Richmond, England, has become an unlikely pilgrimage site for enthusiasts of Apple TV’s beloved comedy series ‘Ted Lasso.’ Not only does the show feature the fictional AFC Richmond football team, but many of its most memorable moments were captured against the backdrop of this charming suburb located just a short train ride from central London.

As the series gears up for its highly anticipated fourth season, which premiered on 5 August 2023, Richmond remains integral to the show’s identity. While the narrative took a detour to Coach Ted’s (played by Jason Sudeikis) hometown of Kansas City this season, it continues to return to Richmond, where its iconic filming locations celebrate the whimsical world of AFC Richmond.
Among the most famous sites is The Prince’s Head pub, which serves as the model for the fictional Crown & Anchor where Ted and his compatriots regularly gather. Brendan Hunt, who plays Coach Beard and is also an executive producer, reminisced about their initial visit to Richmond while discussing its enchanting charm.
“When we first wrote the pilot, we called it Greenwich FC as a placeholder,” Hunt explained in an interview. The show’s fate was forever altered upon stepping into Richmond’s narrow lanes and historic watering holes. The magic was immediate: “I got to sit on Richmond Green for the first time on a sunny Friday afternoon… and I was just immediately enchanted by the place.”
Another crucial filming location is Paved Court, where Ted’s flat is situated. Coincidentally, it has also become a hotspot for fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the iconic shoot. The small thoroughfare is lined with quaint shops, all steeped in the show’s lore. “In season three, we’d show up and there’d be 20 or 30 people,” Hunt recalled, admitting that the once-quiet side street has turned into a vibrant destination for visitors eager to connect with the show.
For those looking to indulge in the same culinary delights as the characters, Chango Empanadas stands out. This Argentinian eatery serves a variety of delicious pastries, including beef and goat cheese empanadas. “All we eat is empanadas when we’re on Richmond Green,” Hunt said, suggesting that the staff’s fondness for the food naturally integrated it into the storyline.
Notably, Hunt’s personal favourite dining spot is L’assaggino, an authentic Italian restaurant conveniently located next door to Ted’s flat. He enthused about its unmatched quality, making it a must-visit for fans looking to recreate the ‘Ted Lasso’ experience during their stay.
SkyEx Community Stadium in Hayes represents the team’s practice pitch in the series and serves as the setting for many football scenes. The club graciously allowed the crew to work around their schedule. “They’re not using it every day by any means, so they were happy to have us,” Hunt explained regarding the filming process. Fans can catch local matches here, adding another layer of excitement to a visit.
While much of the show was shot in Richmond, some moments required the filming crew to venture further afield. Nelson Road Stadium, representing AFC Richmond’s home ground, is actually Selhurst Park, the famed stadium of Crystal Palace. However, strict regulations curtailed filming on the actual pitch. “Every single Premier League stadium we visited told us: ‘Do anything you want, but if anyone sets foot on this pristine pitch, you’re all gone,’” Hunt shared, revealing the creative workaround the team employed to create magical moments while adhering to league guidelines.
As awareness of the series continues to grow, Richmond’s appeal as a tourist destination is similarly on the rise. Fans flock to various locations featured prominently in the show, making it a vibrant hub of activity and nostalgia. Many report finding a sense of community among fellow fans in the town, each sharing their love for the show and experiences within its fleeting locales.
In conclusion, Richmond’s role in ‘Ted Lasso’ is more than just a backdrop; it is a character in its own right, embodying the spirit and warmth that defines the show. As the series expands its narrative scope, those wanting to immerse themselves in Ted’s world need only to venture to this charming corner of London, ensuring that the legacy of AFC Richmond remains alive and accessible to all.
