How to Film at Hyde Park, London: A Comprehensive Guide
Intro
Most people don’t realise that many of London’s most famous places, monuments and landmarks are open for film.
Hyde Park is one of these locations! It’s one of London’s most famous parks and is a really cool location for any production company looking for an outside location in London.
Hyde Park, one of London's eight Royal Parks, all of these types of parks need a proper film permit. In the following blog we’ll walk you through the basic steps for getting a film permit for Hyde Park.
Credit: Pedro Nascimento
Step 1: Getting Permits
Contact The Royal Parks: Obtain permission for filming from The Royal Parks. Applications should detail your project scope, including crew size, equipment, and specific park areas you plan to use.
Permit Fees: Fees vary based on production scale, impact on the park, and filming duration.
Application Link: The Royal Parks Filming Application
Their email Address: film@royalparks.org.uk
Step 2: Filming Regulations
Filming Times and Restrictions: Daylight hours are preferred for filming to minimize disruption. Some areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions to protect public enjoyment and park integrity.
Step 3: Logistics and Equipment
Parking Options: Limited parking is available near Hyde Park. Consider using the parking facilities at:
Q-Park Queensway: Located a short distance from Hyde Park, offering pre-booking options for convenience. Q-Park Information
Park Lane: Metered parking is available, suitable for shorter durations. Larger vehicles might need special arrangements.
Access and Transport: Plan how to transport equipment into the park, as vehicle access is restricted.
Drone Usage: Requires additional clearance and adherence to CAA regulations. There are lots of great drone pilots in London who can help with applying for permits if needed. You can also read our guide on the rules and regulations for flying drones in London.
Step 4: Public Interaction and Safety
Inform the Public: Use signs and barriers to ensure safety and minimize disruptions. Be mindful of park visitors and wildlife.
Step 5: Utilities & Facilities
Nearby Utilities: Facilities such as restrooms and cafes are available within the park. For extensive filming needs, consider arranging portable facilities:
Portable Restrooms: Essential if your crew and cast are on site for long hours.
Catering Services: Mobile catering can be organized with prior approval from The Royal Parks.
Electricity and Water: Generators may be used with specific permissions. Ensure all utility use complies with park regulations to avoid environmental impact.
Step 6: Filming Day Execution
Weather Precautions: London’s weather can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly. We’d always recommend putting up a low impact, easy set up gazebo to keep the equipment under.
Emergency Plans: Familiarize your crew with safety protocols and emergency contacts.
Step 7: Post-Production and Cleanup
Leave No Trace: Conduct a thorough cleanup to ensure the park is left pristine. Review the area with park officials if necessary.
Conclusion
Filming in Hyde Park offers a unique opportunity to capture the essence of London’s natural and historical landscapes. By adhering to these guidelines, your production will not only respect the park’s environmental and operational protocols but also ensure a successful and efficient filming process.
Useful links from our London video production company:
