West Midlands vs London: Why More Film Productions Are Heading North

“About 58% of BBC network television spend is now invested outside London.” That’s not a typo. In just two years, regional investment in UK TV production has leapt by 15%, and the West Midlands is at the centre of this shift.

London may still be the capital of the UK screen industry, but the gravitational pull is changing. The sound stages, crews, and stories of the Midlands are attracting high-profile productions and global attention. From the BBC’s Master Chef relocation to the Hollywood blockbuster scenes shot in Birmingham’s Grand Central, this isn’t just a ripple, it’s a tide.

Film Production Benefits of the West Midlands vs London

London’s production scene is world-renowned, but it comes with challenges: sky-high costs, overstretched crew availability, and fierce competition for studio space. The West Midlands offers something different: scale, diversity, and breathing room.

• Lower overheads, same quality

Accommodation, transport, and even studio space can be more affordable, freeing budget for talent and production value.

• Cultural depth

Locations like the Black Country Living Museum (Peaky Blinders) or Coventry Cathedral (This Town, Nativity!) bring authenticity to screen without the heavy logistics of shooting in central London.

• Rapid infrastructure growth 

With Digbeth Loc. Studios under development and the BBC moving its HQ to the area, the Midlands’ studio capacity is expanding fast.

• Skilled local crews 

The BBC’s regional investment, combined with Create Central’s industry partnerships, means productions can now tap into experienced professionals without importing every role from London.

Set-Jetting Tourism Opportunities in the West Midlands

VisitBritain’s Starring GREAT Britain campaign has made the West Midlands a set-jetting hotspot. Fans travel from across the world to stand where Tom Cruise raced through Grand Central or where Cillian Murphy donned his Peaky Blinders flat cap.

For producers, that matters. Filming in a location with built-in tourism appeal creates a second wave of economic and cultural impact. More visitors mean more goodwill, more PR, and a stronger legacy for the project.

Authentic UK Storytelling Through Regional Film Locations

One of the BBC’s most strategic moves is to root productions in real places. As Rhodri Talfan Davies put it, “Setting programmes somewhere specific is a win-win.” Audiences in the region feel seen; audiences elsewhere enjoy a richer, more authentic world. 

The West Midlands is packed with distinctive backdrops, from gritty industrial heritage to lush countryside. This variety means the same region can convincingly play multiple settings, a dream for location managers.

Actionable Tips for Filming in the West Midlands

If you’re considering moving part or all of your production outside London, here’s how to make the most of the West Midlands:

1. Book early 

Studio space like the upcoming Digbeth Loc. Studios will be in high demand. Secure your slot before your competition does.

2. Tap into local incentives 

Regional bodies often have funding schemes or reduced rates for productions that hire local crews and use local suppliers.

3. Think about your audience post-release 

Choose locations with tourism potential to extend your project’s lifespan in the public eye.

4. Build relationships 

Partner with local universities, creative hubs, and councils early to unlock resources and talent pools.

Why Filming in the West Midlands Is a Smart Move Now

Production spending outside London is a long-term industry transformation. With the BBC investing nearly £900m a year regionally and aiming higher, other broadcasters and streamers are following suit. The West Midlands, thanks to its location, talent base, and new infrastructure, is positioned to take a big slice of that growth.

Plan Your Next Shoot in the Heart of the West Midlands

At The Location House, we offer a premium 19th-century country house in Solihull, just minutes from Birmingham, combining period elegance with modern flexibility. With period interiors, manicured gardens, and adaptable spaces for crews and equipment, it’s the perfect base for productions that demand both style and practicality. Book your recce today and see how this historic location can bring your vision to life.