Film locations & film studios in Birmingham (2024)
Intro.
Whether you’re shooting a short brand film, passion led documentary or feature film, Birmingham has something for everyone. This location guide will guide you through the best spaces on offer, from fully blown studios and sets, to platforms that can help you sort through the locations on offer. The guide will also highlight someone the best locations Birmingham has to offer and will walk you through how to film in each.
Blog Contents
Top 5 Studio Spaces in Birmingham
Finding the right studio space for a production can be a make or break. Below are our five standout production spaces for your next production in Birmingham.
1. The Custard Factory
Overview:
The Custard Factory, located in the heart of Digbeth, is a hub for creative businesses and events. It combines industrial architecture with contemporary interiors, offering versatile spaces for various productions.
Facilities:
Factory Works: A spacious, industrial-style venue with 1200 sqm of space, ideal for conferences, corporate dinners, and product launches. It can accommodate up to 600 standing guests.
Orwell Suite: A smaller venue suitable for meetings and private gatherings, available for hire at £300 per day.
Amenities: Onsite parking, catering options, and proximity to public transportation and local amenities.
Additional Services:
The Custard Factory offers flexible leases and customizable spaces, making it a versatile choice for different production needs.
Website: The Custard Factory.
2. Birmingham Film Studio
Overview:
In association with Marklew Productions Ltd, Birmingham Film Studio provides professional lighting, staging, set, and furniture hire services.
Facilities:
Studio Space: Versatile spaces equipped with rigging and power solutions.
Lighting and Set: Extensive stock of professional lighting, staging, and set pieces.
Furniture Hire: Various furniture options to complement any set design.
Additional Services:
Offers flexible package deals and can source additional equipment through industry contacts.
Website: Birmingham Film Studio.
3. Digbeth Loc Studios
Overview:
Known for its urban and industrial aesthetic, Digbeth Loc Studios offers a range of unique locations suitable for diverse filming requirements.
Facilities:
Indoor and Outdoor Settings: Various settings that provide an authentic urban backdrop.
Technical Support: Onsite support for setting up and managing equipment.
Additional Services:
Flexibility in booking and customizing spaces to meet specific production needs.
Website: Digbeth Loc Studios.
4. Curzon Street Studios
Overview:
Part of Birmingham City University, these studios offer state-of-the-art facilities for media production.
Facilities:
Multiple Studios: Equipped with modern amenities for professional media production.
Editing Suites: Advanced editing facilities for post-production work.
Production Offices: Spaces for administrative and production planning activities.
Additional Services:
Technical support and access to university resources and expertise.
Website: Curzon Street Studios.
5. B30 Studios
Overview:
A versatile studio space located in Birmingham, offering a range of facilities for film and video production.
Facilities:
Large Shooting Spaces: Suitable for various production scales.
Green Screens: Available for visual effects and creative filming needs.
Support for Various Production Needs: Includes dressing rooms, makeup areas, and equipment storage.
Additional Services:
Flexible booking options and customized packages to fit production requirements.
Website: B30 Studios.
Location platforms in Birmingham
Finding the perfect film location is essential for setting the right tone and atmosphere for your production. Here are some resources and tips for finding ideal film locations in Birmingham:
1. Tagvenue
Overview: Tagvenue is an online platform that connects you with a variety of filming locations in Birmingham, ranging from industrial settings to modern interiors.
Features:
Extensive Listings: Includes a wide range of venues suitable for different types of productions.
Detailed Information: Each listing provides comprehensive details, including pricing, capacity, and facilities.
Easy Booking: The platform allows you to enquire and book locations directly online.
How to Use: Visit Tagvenue to explore their listings and find the perfect location for your shoot.
2. Giggster
Overview: Giggster offers a variety of unique and creative locations for film shoots in Birmingham. The platform caters to filmmakers looking for diverse and visually appealing settings.
Features:
Unique Locations: Offers a curated selection of locations, including historic buildings, modern apartments, and outdoor spaces.
User Reviews: Locations are rated by previous users, helping you make informed decisions.
Flexible Rental Terms: Options for short-term and long-term rentals based on production needs.
How to Use: Visit Giggster to browse their available locations and secure the best spot for your project.
Filming Birmingham’s public places & landmarks.
In this next section of the blog we’ll explore some of Birmingham’s famous public spaces and landmarks. We’ll outline how you can film in each location and highlight some of the great features each space offers.
1. The Bullring & Grand Central
Description: A bustling shopping centre that has played host to countless crews, including the latest Mission Impossible film, where it was transformed to replicate Dubai airport.
Highlights: Perfect for urban settings and can double as exotic locations with the right set design.
2. Jewellery Quarter
Description: This historic area was prominently featured in Steven Spielberg's Ready Player One.
Highlights: Provides a vibrant and unique backdrop with its mix of historic and modern architecture.
3. Birmingham Town Hall
Description: Modelled on the Temple of Castor and Pollux in Rome, this stunning building has been a popular spot for video production, including the British comedy show Brassed Off.
Highlights: Perfect for period features with its impressive architecture.
4. Kidderminster
Description: Located just outside of Birmingham, this charming location has been used in productions like Benediction and Netflix’s Enola Holmes.
Highlights: Ideal for large-scale video production with its picturesque settings.
5. Birmingham Canals
Description: The extensive canal network offers picturesque views, historic structures, and tranquil water scenes perfect for various film genres.
Contact: Birmingham City Council - Birmingham Canals
Application Process: Filming permission must be obtained from the Canal & River Trust.
6. Cannon Hill Park
Description: This park provides lush greenery, picturesque lakes, and vibrant flowers, ideal for nature and family scenes.
Contact: Birmingham City Council - Cannon Hill Park
Application Process: Contact the park administration for filming permits.
7. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Description: Featuring themed gardens, glasshouses with tropical plants, and serene settings, this location is perfect for sophisticated and naturalistic scenes.
Contact: Birmingham Botanical Gardens - Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Application Process: Filming enquiries should be directed to the venue’s event management team.
8. Gas Street Basin
Description: A historic canal basin with scenic views, local pubs, and vibrant nightlife, suitable for urban and historic settings.
Contact: Canal & River Trust - Gas Street Basin
Application Process: Permission from the Canal & River Trust is required for filming.
Conclusion
Birmingham, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant urban settings, offers an array of excellent locations and studios for film and video production. Whether you're working on an indie film, a commercial shoot, or a large-scale production, finding the right location is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the process of finding the perfect locations and studios for your next project in Birmingham.
