Filming in the UK – I Know A Great Place!
The UK is a treasure trove of diverse and picturesque filming locations from Scotland to Cornwall. Despite its small size, the UK offers a wide variety of landscapes, from rugged Scottish islands and windswept moors to the rolling hills and charming cottages of England.
Filming Locations in the UK
The UK’s diverse landscapes include the dramatic beauty of Welsh mountains, valleys, lakes, peaceful coastal areas, and historic sites celebrated by artists and writers. The country’s efficient transport infrastructure provides easy access to all these filming opportunities, making it an attractive destination for filmmakers.
Incentives for Filmmakers
Filmmakers considering the UK for their productions can benefit from numerous incentives:
Talented Performers and Crews:
The UK boasts a wealth of experienced and professional technicians, crews, and performers.
Quality Facilities:
The country offers world-class studios, post-production, visual effects, and music facilities.
Supportive Government:
The UK government has enacted fiscal and regulatory reforms, including attractive tax reliefs, to support the film industry.
Competitive Costs:
The UK’s stable industry and competitive costs make it an appealing option for filmmakers.
Screen Agencies:
A well-organized network of national and regional screen agencies can assist productions across the UK.
Diverse Locations:
The stunning diversity of locations, from historic castles to modern cityscapes, offers a setting for every type of production.
Recent Productions
The UK has been the backdrop for numerous high-profile films, including:
- The Crown (Netflix Series)
- Bridgerton (Netflix Series)
- 1917 (Film)
- Rocketman (Film)
- No Time to Die (James Bond Film)
- Enola Holmes (Netflix Film)
- The Witcher (Netflix Series)
- Downton Abbey (Film)
- Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (Film)
- His Dark Materials (BBC Series)
Tax Breaks & Incentives
The UK has extensive support for the film industry. For information on the UK film tax credit, visit the British Film Institute (BFI) website. In addition to the UK film tax credit, the UK Film Council receives public funding from the National Lottery and grant support.
Filming Studios
The UK is home to renowned studios such as Pinewood, with the world-famous 007 James Bond stage, the largest in Europe. These studios offer advanced sound stage and post-production services and regularly produce international blockbusters. With a range of stage sizes and support services, UK studios can meet the needs of any production. Many studios are conveniently located near major cities with excellent transport links, and specialist facilities such as water tanks and underwater stages are also available.
Iconic Filming Locations
From the moorlands of “Wuthering Heights” to the streets of London seen in “The King’s Speech,” the UK offers locations for every requirement. The country’s rich historical heritage is perfect for films needing stunning castles or ancient forests. Despite the variety of landscapes, the UK’s compact size means travelling between locations is easy, making it an ideal destination for filmmakers.
Private Land
Several national bodies manage properties and land often requested for filming, including:
- The National Trust
- Royal Parks
- English Heritage
- Ministry of Defence
- Forestry Commission
- British Waterways
Open Space and Roads
Filming in open spaces typically requires permission from the local authority or council, while filming on roads and public highways necessitates permission from the local Highways Agency or authority. The use of firearms, explosives, and imitation police vehicles requires police permission.
New Opportunities
With continuous advancements in technology and infrastructure, the UK remains at the forefront of the global film industry. Emerging filming locations and newly restored historic sites provide fresh opportunities for filmmakers. The country’s commitment to supporting the arts ensures that the UK will continue to be a premier destination for film and television productions.
Whether you need a historical backdrop or a modern urban setting, the UK has the perfect location for your next project. Explore the endless possibilities and why many filmmakers choose the UK as their ideal filming destination.
Related Articles
- Your Property as a Film Location
- Quick Guide to Filming in the UK
- Filming in London, why Directors love to shoot here
- Film Locations Used in Peaky Blinders
- Filming in London FAQs