Are you looking for the perfect location to bring your creative visions to life? Manchester, with its rich cultural heritage and buzzing creative scene, stands tall as one of the most dynamic cities for film production in the UK. Whether you’re an independent filmmaker, a corporate agency, or a seasoned production company, Manchester’s film studios offer plenty of options to match your needs.
From state-of-the-art facilities to historic spaces that exude charm, we’ll guide you through the top film studios in Manchester, what makes them special, and how to choose the right one for your next project.
Why Manchester is a Thriving Hub for Film and TV Production
Manchester’s status as a cultural powerhouse goes beyond its music, art, and sports. Over the past decade, it has become a major hub for the film and TV industry. Here’s why:
- Historic and Urban Aesthetic: The city’s rich mix of historical buildings and modern architecture makes it a versatile filming location.
- Growing Infrastructure: Investment in purpose-built film studios and post-production facilities has skyrocketed.
- Affordability: Compared to London, Manchester offers impressive production value at a fraction of the cost.
- Talent Pool: Access to highly skilled production crews, actors, and creatives adds to its appeal.
Whether you need a sprawling soundstage or a cozy set for a small production, Manchester has something for everyone.
Top Film Studios in Manchester
Below are some of the city’s leading film studios in Manchester, ranging in size and specialized features.
1. Space Studios Manchester
Space Studios Manchester is a top-tier facility known for its modern amenities and large-scale capabilities.
- Location: Gorton, Manchester
- What They Offer:
- Over 85,000 square feet of soundstage space
- Full-service production support, including set-building facilities
- Cutting-edge post-production suites
- Perfect For:
High-budget TV productions, commercials, and feature films. Past productions include popular TV dramas and Netflix originals.
2. The Sharp Project
Creativity thrives at The Sharp Project, a vibrant hub for small-scale filmmakers and digital creators.
- Location: Newton Heath, Manchester
- What They Offer:
- Flexible studio spaces starting from 900 square feet
- Affordable rates tailored to smaller budgets
- A collaborative environment with over 60 creative businesses on-site
- Perfect For:
Independent filmmakers, short films, and music video shoots. The Sharp Project is particularly popular with tech-savvy creators.
3. Old Granada Studios
Once home to iconic TV programs, Old Granada Studios combines rich history with world-class facilities.
- Location: Central Manchester
- What They Offer:
- Versatile spaces for both live events and filming
- Industrial aesthetic perfect for period dramas or modern productions
- Strong connections to the city’s creative networks
- Perfect For:
Productions seeking a unique backdrop steeped in television history.
4. VERSA Studios
VERSA Studios has gained attention for its ultra-flexible spaces, which can be adapted to film productions of any size.
- Location: Various sites across Greater Manchester
- What They Offer:
- Soundproof stages and blackout studios
- High-tech lighting and grip equipment
- On-site post-production services
- Perfect For:
Corporate shoots, commercials, and international productions that require technical sophistication.
5. MediaCityUK
Known internationally, MediaCityUK is the beating heart of Manchester’s media landscape.
- Location: Salford, Manchester
- What They Offer:
- Home to BBC, ITV, and major production companies
- Large broadcast studios with state-of-the-art tech
- A vibrant creative ecosystem with networking opportunities
- Perfect For:
Live broadcasts, TV shows, and large-scale productions.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Film Studio in Manchester
Here are a few factors to keep in mind when picking the right film studio for your project:
- Space Requirements
Consider the size of your production. Do you need a vast soundstage for elaborate sets or a small studio for a compact crew?
- Budget
Manchester offers a studio for every budget. While some studios provide luxe, high-tech solutions, others like The Sharp Project cater to independent filmmakers on a tighter budget.
- Facilities on Offer
Check if the studio provides essential features such as green screens, post-production suites, or equipment rentals.
- Location Accessibility
Choose a studio that’s easy to access for your cast, crew, and equipment. Bonus points for good transport links and nearby amenities.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Think about the visual style of your production. Does the studio have unique features (like Old Granada Studios) or modern amenities (like VERSA)?
- Networking Opportunities
Studios like MediaCityUK double up as community hubs, offering access to industry professionals, events, and resources.
How Manchester’s Film Studios Stack Up Globally
From hosting Hollywood blockbusters to becoming the base for countless acclaimed TV productions, Manchester’s star continues to rise. Increasing investments in cutting-edge facilities make the city competitive globally, rivaling iconic production hubs like London and LA.
Big names in entertainment have already taken notice—Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC frequently choose Manchester for their projects. Both the local and international talent pools have grown alongside the industry, making this city a trusted powerhouse in content creation.
Lights, Camera, Manchester!
Manchester’s film studios are more than just production spaces—they’re vibrant ecosystems that nurture creativity and innovation. Whether you’re producing a heartfelt indie film or scaling up for your next big-budget production, Manchester has the tools, spaces, and talent you need.
Now, it’s time to turn your vision into reality. Explore these iconic film studios and find the perfect backdrop for your story. Book a consultation with our team today and discover how we can help bring your ideas to life in Manchester’s thriving film landscape.
