Speculation has been mounting after film crews were spotted at a historic stately home.

The main house of Penshurst Place, near Tonbridge, is closed to the public and parts of the grounds have been sectioned off.

It is understood production on the unknown blockbuster kicked off in mid-October.

On a local Facebook group, resident Gordon Streeter said: “Having lived in Penshurst since 1951, I have seen many film sets based around Penshurst Place.

“However, at this moment, you would have to drive by it to see what is happening to believe it.

“There are literally hundreds of cars/assorted film equipment/temporary enclosures that have filled the castle grounds up!”

Another person counted at least 60 cars, three tents and six trucks on the site.

There were rumours that it could be a sequel to Amazon MGM’s remake of Road House, which previously starred Jake Gyllenhaal as Elwood Dalton.

The 2024 film was a huge hit on the streaming platform, and it has since been confirmed that the actor will return to the role.

However, others thought it could be one of Guy Ritchie’s upcoming films, Wife & Dog, which began filming in February.

Actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Rosamund Pike, Anthony Hopkins, Cosmo Jarvis, James Norton and more have all been added to the cast list.

While details of the film’s plot currently remain under wraps, it is thought that it will return to the world of British aristocracy as explored in the TV series, The Gentlemen.

Speculation peaked after James Norton was seen popping in for a coffee at Basil in St John's Road, Tunbridge Wells, last Monday (October 27).

The 40-year-old most recently had a lead role as Sean Rafferty in Netflix’s House of Guinness, which was released on the streaming platform at the end of September.

He spoke with star-struck staff and posed for pictures.

Despite the actor claiming he wasn’t in the area for filming, the cafe is around a 15-minute drive from the historic building.

On the estate’s website, it said: “We’re excited to be hosting filming at Penshurst Place!

“The house is now closed for the season, but everything else – the gardens, grounds, café, playground and all Halloween activities – will be open as normal until November 2.

“Join us for autumn fun while the house takes its starring role!”

A spokesperson told KentOnline they couldn’t disclose what was happening or provide further details due to the closed set, but will be sharing more news in the near future.

The Kent Film Office added that they wouldn’t be able to comment either.

Staff at The Leicester Arms Country Inn – located in Penshurst High Street – were also tight-lipped, but hinted that the movie was "Hollywood-big".

Penshurst Place has previously been a backdrop for several films and TV series, including Mary Queen of Scots (2019), The Great Fire (2014) and The Other Boleyn Girl (2008).

The latest appearance was in an episode of the Channel 4 documentary, Great Estates from Above.

It followed an on-site team as they carried out the everyday work required to conserve the 14th-century country house and its estate.

Viewers were given a look into staterooms and collections cared for by specialist housekeeping staff, such as fine art, furnishings, armour and antiques.