A filmmaker’s guide to Manchester

Manchester has long been one of the UK’s leading centres for film and television production. Today, the city is home to world-class production facilities, thriving creative communities, and major UK broadcasters, making it an attractive destination for filmmakers at every stage of their careers.

Whether you’re looking to study, build your network, or bring your next project to life, Manchester is one of the UK’s leading cities for filmmakers. Based at Riverside Studios, MetFilm School Manchester places students at the heart of one of the UK’s most active creative industry hubs, offering direct access to a thriving screen sector and a wealth of creative opportunities.

This guide explores what makes Manchester such an exciting place to study, create, and launch a career in film.

Filmmaking history and iconic locations

Manchester has a long and proud connection to the film and television industry. The city helped shape British broadcasting through the iconic Granada Studios, whose legacy still plays an important role in its creative identity.

Since then, Manchester has become a popular filming location for productions including 24 Hour Party People, which explores the city’s influential music scene, and hit TV series such as The Crown. Its mix of historic buildings, industrial spaces, modern architecture, and vibrant neighbourhoods gives filmmakers a wide range of locations, all within easy reach.

The artsy Northern Quarter is a popular filming spot and was famously transformed by Marvel into 1940s Brooklyn for Captain America: The First Avenger. Castlefield’s canals and industrial architecture have featured in films such as A Monster Calls, while Chetham’s Library, seen in Tolkien, offers a rich, atmospheric setting ideal for period storytelling.

Together, these locations make Manchester a versatile and visually rich city for filmmakers working across genres.

A thriving filmmaking community

Manchester’s filmmaking community is active, collaborative, and well connected. Screen Manchester, the city’s official film office, supports productions by helping with permits, locations, and local resources. Cultural venues such as HOME Manchester also play a key role, hosting screenings, workshops, and networking events throughout the year.

For filmmakers looking to share their work or meet other creatives, the city hosts a strong festival calendar. The Manchester Film Festival showcases both local and international talent and remains a key date in the industry calendar. MetFilm School also sponsored the 2026 edition, including a takeover day featuring a series of special events. The festival also celebrated emerging talent, with BA Filmmaking graduate Matthew Eyre taking home the Rising Star award for his self-written and directed short film, Safe Space.

For genre fans, Grimmfest is one of the UK’s leading horror and cult film festivals. Meanwhile, the Manchester Animation Festival is the largest animation festival’s in the UK, celebrating animated storytelling in all its forms.

Alongside its festival scene, the city’s cultural and production spaces are a big part of its creative life. The Lowry is a major centre for screen, stage, and exhibitions, while MediaCityUK is a leading media hub home to the BBC, ITV, Dock10, and a wide range of production companies.

Adding to the city’s industry presence, the TV Festival will be hosted in Manchester in 2027, after more than 50 years in Scotland, bringing together leading voices from across the television industry for talks, debates, and masterclasses.

Life in Manchester: A creative’s inspiration

Manchester’s vibrant nightlife, hidden urban spaces, and rich cultural scene make it an inspiring place to live and work. Home to a large student population and a diverse, welcoming community, the city offers an exciting environment both on and off campus.

Whether you’re grabbing coffee between lectures, exploring independent shops, or heading out for the evening, Manchester has something for everyone. With great transport links and plenty going on across the city, it’s easy to make the most of student life.

Manchester also offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different lifestyles and budgets, making it easy for students to find a place that feels like home while they study.

Why choose Manchester?

In summary, Manchester is a city that embraces creativity and offers a supportive environment for filmmakers. With its diverse filming locations, strong industry presence, and excellent opportunities for networking, it’s no surprise so many filmmakers choose to base themselves here.

Whether you’re just starting out or already working in the industry, Manchester provides the tools, talent, and environment to develop your craft and bring your ideas to life.

Dreaming of studying in Manchester? Book a place on our next Open Day.

Clearing 2026 is open.

We still have spaces available on our creative, career-focused Undergraduate Courses starting this September through UCAS. Learn more about Clearing on our clearing page.

If you want to beat the rush on Results Day and get exclusive support, you can register for Clearing Ready, our enhanced Clearing support service today. Learn more here.

Get in touch with our Admissions Team to discuss your options and find out more about our available BA Degrees:

• Phone: 01273 096406
• Email: admissions@metfilm.ac.uk