Family Films About Abandoned Places

Description: While not a traditional family film, this fantasy epic features a world where abandoned castles and ruins play a significant role in the narrative, making it a unique addition to our list.

Fact: The film was created using a combination of puppetry, animatronics, and early CGI, making it a landmark in fantasy filmmaking.

Description: A group of kids embark on a treasure hunt that leads them to an abandoned restaurant and an underground cavern system. The film captures the spirit of adventure in forgotten places, making it a timeless family classic.

Fact: The film was shot in Astoria, Oregon, where many of the locations, like the house used as the Fratellis' hideout, are now tourist attractions.

Description: Set in a grand, abandoned hotel, this film tells the story of a boy and his grandmother who encounter a coven of witches. The hotel's eerie atmosphere adds to the film's charm and mystery.

Fact: The film was directed by Nicolas Roeg and features Anjelica Huston in a memorable performance as the Grand High Witch.

Description: Mary Lennox discovers a hidden, overgrown garden in her uncle's estate. The garden, long abandoned, becomes a place of healing and discovery for her and her cousins.

Fact: The film was shot in Yorkshire, England, and the garden was created specifically for the movie, taking months to construct.

Description: A group of people stay in the eerie, abandoned Hill House to investigate paranormal activity. While not strictly for children, the film's setting and themes make it an intriguing watch for older family members.

Fact: The film is based on Shirley Jackson's novel "The Haunting of Hill House," and the mansion's design was inspired by real haunted houses.

Description: While not entirely about an abandoned place, the film features a castle that has been neglected for years, which Mia Thermopolis must restore to its former glory. It's a light-hearted take on the theme.

Fact: The castle scenes were filmed at the real-life Castle Howard in England, which adds authenticity to the setting.

Description: This enchanting tale follows a young girl named Maria Merryweather who inherits an ancient estate, Moonacre Manor, filled with secrets and magic. The manor, long abandoned, becomes the setting for her adventures, making it a perfect fit for our theme.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Little White Horse" by Elizabeth Goudge, and it features stunning visuals of the manor and its surrounding landscapes.

Description: The Grace children move into the Spiderwick Estate, an old, abandoned mansion with a secret world hidden within. The film explores the magic and danger lurking in forgotten places.

Fact: The film was adapted from a series of books by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, and it features a mix of live-action and CGI to bring the magical creatures to life.

Description: Lewis Barnavelt moves into his uncle's spooky, clock-filled mansion, which holds a dark secret. The house itself is a character, with its eerie, abandoned feel, making it a great addition to this list.

Fact: The film is based on the book by John Bellairs, and it features a mix of practical and CGI effects to bring the house to life.

Description: In this post-apocalyptic tale, the city of Ember, built underground to protect its inhabitants, is now in decay. Two children must find a way out before the city's generator fails.

Fact: The film's sets were inspired by real abandoned places, giving it an authentic, eerie atmosphere.