Star Wars filming Andor series in Dorset quarry cancelled

Sections of Winspit Quarry, near Worth Matravers, have been closed amid filming for the second series of Andor – an original Disney+ programme.

The National Trust says recent turbulent weather has increased the risk of rockfalls and landslips, meaning the multi-million-dollar Star Wars production has seen its filming curtailed.

This is the second time Star Wars crews have filmed at the quarry, with the site previously closed for several weeks in May 2021 for the first series.

A National Trust spokesperson said: “The planned filming due to take place at Winspit Quarry has been cancelled due to safety concerns following the recent turbulent weather, which has increased the risk of rockfalls and landslips.

“Visitors looking to explore the Dorset Coast are advised to follow signs and keep out of unsafe areas until further surveys have been undertaken.”

Filming for Star Wars series Andor at Winspit Quarry in Dorset.

Tracey Churcher, the National Trust's general manager for Purbeck, added: “The coast and cliffs along this stretch of the Dorset Coast, including the Quarry, can be unstable and naturally liable to landslips and falls – particularly after extreme weather including heavy rainfall and hot dry periods.

“We urge people to take the time to read warning signs and follow the instructions so they can enjoy the coast safely. People should always stay well back from the cliff and rock edges, whether on or below them, and we ask people not to visit Winspit Quarry until our experts are confident it is safe to visit again.”

The site was featured as the backdrop for a cave used by the character Saw Gerrera, played by Forest Whitaker, when visited by Stellan Skarsgård’s character Luthen Rael.

Andor is a prequel series to both the spin-off film Rogue One and the original 1977 Star Wars film. The series follows Cassian Andor, a scavenger who later becomes a member of the Rebel Alliance.

As well as filming in Dorset, the series is also being shot in London and is expected to be released in August 2024. It will conclude the series, and lead into the events of Rogue One.

According to The British Mountaineering Council, access to the western part of the crag is also closed off while reports of “geological instability” are investigated.