The Bristol Location Guide: Studio Spaces + Locations (2024)
Intro
It’s no secret that Bristol is a hub for all things film and video, it’s the UNESCO city of film and is home to some of the world’s greatest video, film and tv studios. The BBC Natural History Unit is based in Bristol, along with the leading studios that brought us Planet Earth and the other Attenborough epics. That’s not to mention the numerous video production companies in Bristol like ourselves who also call Bristol home.
In this short guide we’ll explore some of Bristols best film studio spaces and filming locations.
What’s in this guide?
Top 5 Film Studio Spaces in Bristol
Finding the perfect studio space is crucial for the success of your film production. Here are five standout studio spaces in Bristol that cater to various production needs:
1. The Bottle Yard Studios
Overview:
The Bottle Yard Studios is the largest dedicated film and TV studio facility in the West of England, located just south of Bristol city center. It offers a wide range of facilities suitable for major film and television productions.
Facilities:
Sound Stages: Eight stages ranging from 7,000 to 20,000 square feet.
Workshops and Offices: Extensive workshop space and fully serviced production offices.
Backlot: External sets and spaces for outdoor shooting.
Additional Services:
On-site support including security, catering, and parking.
Access to a skilled local crew and additional resources as needed.
Address: Whitchurch Lane, Bristol, BS14 0BH
Contact:
Phone: +44 (0)117 357 6888
Email: info@thebottleyard.com
Website: The Bottle Yard Studios
2. Nine Tree Studios
Overview:
Nine Tree Studios offers a creative and flexible space for a variety of productions, from commercials to feature films. Located in the heart of Bristol, it provides a collaborative environment to help bring creative visions to life.
Facilities:
Studio Space: Multiple adaptable studio spaces with high ceilings and drive-in access.
Equipment Hire: Full range of lighting, camera, and grip equipment available for hire.
Production Offices: On-site offices and client lounges for a comfortable working environment.
Additional Services:
In-house production team available to assist with project planning and execution.
Catering services and green rooms to ensure a smooth production process.
Address: Unit 9, Parkview Trading Estate, Hartcliffe Way, Bristol, BS3 5RJ
Contact:
Phone: +44 (0)117 953 6690
Email: info@ninetreestudios.co.uk
Website: Nine Tree Studios
3. The Farm Studios
Overview:
The Farm Studios is known for its bespoke studio spaces tailored to meet the needs of various productions. Located in the countryside near Bristol, it offers a serene and spacious environment for filming.
Facilities:
Studio Space: Versatile studio spaces with customizable backdrops and lighting setups.
Equipment Hire: High-quality photography and film equipment available.
Production Offices: Comfortable and functional office spaces for production teams.
Additional Services:
Assistance with set design and styling.
Flexible booking options and competitive pricing.
Address: The Farm, Timsbury Road, High Littleton, Bristol, BS39 6HL
Contact:
Phone: +44 (0)1761 471885
Email: enquiries@farmstudio.co.uk
Website: The Farm Studios
4. Patchway Studios
Overview:
Patchway Studios offers a unique, large-scale space perfect for ambitious productions. Known for its industrial aesthetic, it provides a distinct environment for creative projects.
Facilities:
Large Studio Space: Expansive studio space suitable for large set builds and complex shoots.
Drive-In Access: Convenient access for loading and unloading large equipment and sets.
On-Site Workshops: Dedicated spaces for set construction and props.
Additional Services:
Customizable studio configurations to meet specific production needs.
On-site technical support and equipment rental services.
Address: Patchway Trading Estate, Britannia Road, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5TA
Contact:
Phone: +44 (0)117 969 3993
Email: info@patchwaystudios.com
Website: Patchway Studios
5. Box 7 Studios
Overview:
Box 7 Studios is a modern film and photography studio located in the heart of Bristol. It is ideal for smaller productions, including fashion shoots, music videos, and independent film projects.
Facilities:
Studio Space: Intimate studio space with customizable backdrops and lighting setups.
Equipment Hire: Availability of high-quality photography and film equipment.
Client Lounge: Comfortable lounge area for clients and crew.
Additional Services:
Assistance with set design and styling.
Flexible booking options and competitive pricing.
Address: Box 7 Studios, Unit 7, Merton Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8TL
Contact:
Phone: +44 (0)117 924 8990
Email: info@box-7.com
Website: Box 7 Studios
Filming in Bristol’s Public Places & Landmarks:
Bristol is a city with a rich history and a variety of filming locations that offer everything from historic landmarks to modern urban settings. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best public spaces, landmarks, and indoor venues in Bristol, perfect for various production needs. Each location offers unique features and a touch of history, making them ideal for different genres of film and television.
1. Clifton Suspension Bridge
Description:
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic symbol of Bristol, spanning the Avon Gorge and linking Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset. Designed by the famous engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the bridge opened in 1864 and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Highlights:
Stunning Scenic Views: Ideal for both day and night shoots, capturing the dramatic landscapes of the Avon Gorge and the city skyline.
Historical Significance: The bridge is a testament to Victorian engineering and has been a backdrop in films like "The Sense of an Ending" and "The Inbetweeners 2".
Contact: Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust
Application Process: Filming permits can be obtained from the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust.
2. Bristol Harbourside
Description:
Bristol Harbourside is a vibrant area that includes historic ships, modern architecture, and bustling waterfront activities. Once a busy dock, the harbourside has been transformed into a lively cultural quarter, featuring museums, galleries, and restaurants.
Highlights:
Blend of Historical and Modern Elements: Offers a variety of settings, from the historic M Shed museum to contemporary office buildings.
Perfect for Urban and Waterfront Scenes: Frequently used in productions such as "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" and "Stan & Ollie".
Key Features: Notable locations include Princes Wharf, which has been transformed for period settings, and the MV Balmoral, a vintage pleasure cruiser.
Contact: Bristol City Council
Application Process: Permits can be arranged through the council’s events team.
3. Ashton Court Estate
Description:
Ashton Court Estate is a historic estate located just outside Bristol, featuring a stunning mansion house, expansive parklands, and woodlands. The estate has been owned by the Smyth family for over 400 years and is now a public park managed by Bristol City Council.
Highlights:
Historical Settings and Lush Landscapes: Ideal for period dramas and natural scenes, with the mansion house providing a grand backdrop.
Versatile for Various Types of Shoots: The estate's diverse landscapes include formal gardens, woodlands, and open parkland.
Previous Productions: Featured in films like "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society".
Contact: Bristol City Council - Ashton Court Estate
Application Process: Permits required and can be arranged through the estate’s administration.
4. St. Nicholas Market
Description:
Located in the heart of Bristol, St. Nicholas Market is one of the city’s oldest markets, operating since 1743. It offers a unique blend of architecture, with Georgian and Victorian influences, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Highlights:
Eclectic and Lively Market Environment: The market is bustling with independent stalls, food vendors, and unique shops.
Unique Architectural Features: The market's historic buildings provide a distinctive backdrop for filming.
Ideal for Market Scenes: The vibrant and diverse environment is perfect for capturing the essence of a busy market.
Contact: Bristol City Council
Application Process: Permits can be arranged through the council’s events team.
5. Cabot Tower & Brandon Hill
Description:
Cabot Tower, located on Brandon Hill, is a historic tower built in the late 19th century to commemorate John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol to North America. Brandon Hill itself is the oldest park in Bristol, offering panoramic views of the city.
Highlights:
Elevated Views of Bristol: The tower and park provide stunning panoramic shots of the city.
Serene and Picturesque Park Setting: Ideal for peaceful park scenes and elevated cityscape shots.
Historical Significance: The site combines natural beauty with historical elements, making it versatile for different filming needs.
Contact: Bristol City Council
Application Process: Permits can be arranged through the council’s events team.
6. The Old Vic Theatre
Description:
The Bristol Old Vic is the oldest continuously operating theatre in the English-speaking world, having opened in 1766. It boasts beautiful Georgian architecture and a rich theatrical history.
Highlights:
Historic Interiors and Exteriors: The theatre's architecture provides a stunning setting for period dramas and theatre-related scenes.
Cultural Significance: Known for its significant role in the development of theatre in the UK, it has been featured in various productions, adding authenticity to any film.
Notable Productions: Used in films like "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society".
Contact: Bristol Old Vic Administration
Application Process: Filming enquiries should be directed to the theatre’s administration.
7. Wills Memorial Building
Description:
Part of the University of Bristol, the Wills Memorial Building is a neo-Gothic landmark completed in 1925. It features grand interiors and serves as a key academic building.
Highlights:
Grand Architectural Design: The building’s neo-Gothic style is perfect for academic and historical scenes.
Ideal for Academic and Historical Settings: The grand hall, library, and ceremonial spaces provide a dramatic backdrop.
Previous Productions: Featured in productions like "The Adventurer: The Curse of the Midas Box".
Contact: University of Bristol
Application Process: Filming permits can be obtained through the university’s administration.
Photo Credit: Bristol University
8. Blaise Castle Estate
Description:
Blaise Castle Estate features a historic mansion house, a folly castle, and extensive parklands. The estate has a rich history dating back to the 18th century and offers diverse filming locations.
Highlights:
Historical Buildings and Natural Landscapes: Suitable for historical dramas and nature scenes.
Versatile for Various Production Needs: Includes formal gardens, woodlands, and open parklands.
Notable Productions: Featured in period dramas like "Sanditon".
Contact: Bristol City Council - Blaise Castle Estate
Application Process: Permits can be arranged through the estate’s administration.
9. Goldney Hall
Description:
Located in Clifton, Goldney Hall is a historic house and gardens owned by the University of Bristol. Its elegant features and well-maintained gardens make it a picturesque filming location.
Highlights:
Elegant Gardens and Historic Architecture: Provides a beautiful setting for period and upscale contemporary scenes.
Notable Productions: Used in the TV series "McDonald & Dodds".
Contact: University of Bristol
Application Process: Filming enquiries should be directed to the university’s administration.
10. Bristol Cathedral
Description:
Bristol Cathedral is a stunning Gothic cathedral with a history dating back to the 12th century. Its grand interiors and detailed architecture make it perfect for historical and dramatic scenes.
Highlights:
Intricate Gothic Architecture: Ideal for large-scale and dramatic scenes, providing a majestic backdrop.
Cultural and Historical Significance: The cathedral's historical depth adds authenticity to any production.
Famous Productions: Known for its appearance in "Wolf Hall".
Contact: Bristol Cathedral Administration
Application Process: Filming permits can be obtained through the cathedral’s administration.
Conclusion
In Bristol there are almost too many spaces to choose from. The key is always picking the right space for the right budget, brand and timescale. Shooting on a shoe string budget with only a week of pre production is not going to lend itself towards large public spaces that have long bureaucratic processes for working in.
If you need any advice on filming in Bristol, whether it’s location scouting or just a friendly point in the right direction please just get in touch.
