When it comes to iconic British seaside destinations, Blackpool undoubtedly takes centre stage. With its lively promenade, stunning seafront and iconic skyline, this Lancashire gem has long been an inspirational backdrop for filmmakers and TV producers.
Julie Vincent, Head of MeetBlackpool discusses the destination’s star-studded appeal and how the town is reaping the economic benefits.
On location
Film makers have long been visiting Blackpool for its quintessentially British charm and a range of venues and backdrops to suit the needs of directors and videographers alike.
Over the past year, Blackpool has been the filming destination of choice for four major film and TV productions, which has generated more than £1 million worth of economic benefit for the town.
The town has a vast number of filming locations including six miles of spectacular coastline, three piers and two ballrooms. It also benefits from eclectic venues including Winter Gardens Ballroom with its collection of decorated spaces, the 19th century Imperial Hotel Blackpool which sits on the famous Blackpool Promenade and The Blackpool Pleasure Beach, which is a firm favourite amongst location members and has been the backdrop to many productions over the years including The Harry Hill Movie and TV dramas Waterloo Road and Coronation Street.
The town has some quintessentially British streets and parks which have been used for a number of adverts and films including Specsavers and Netflix drama Stay Close. Grade II listed Stanley Park, which covers 390 acres, is an idyllic setting in the heart of Blackpool. The park, which has twice been crowned the UK’s best park, offers impressive, landscaped gardens, an amphitheatre with a 93-year-old bandstand as its centre piece and its Cocker Memorial Clock Tower.
Blackpool Film Office, situated within the Blackpool Council team, is designed to support and assist small and large-scale productions with all enquiries, relevant liaisons and permissions. The team is primarily responsible for the outdoor spaces in the resort, including its award-winning beaches, promenade, town centre, residential streets and properties managed by Blackpool Council. Further information on filming locations in Blackpool can be found here.
Filmed in Blackpool
The town has been showcased in many TV and film productions, including the iconic Coronation Street tram scene where villain Alan Bradley was knocked down and killed on the Promenade. Here are some of our favourite productions that have been filmed on location in Blackpool.
Kinky Boots (2005)
Released in 2005 the film Kinky Boots, which is based on a true story, focuses on the owner of a struggling British shoe factory who forms an unlikely bond with a drag queen who helps to save the business from closure. Whilst the film was not entirely shot in Blackpool, eagle-eyed viewers will spot that some parts were filmed in the Winter Gardens.
Strictly Come Dancing (2009 – present)
Each year the glitz and glamour of Strictly Come Dancing makes its way to the town for Blackpool week, where contestants take to the floor in the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom. The town is famous for ballroom dancing and has its own dance competition, attracting dancers from across the world every single year making it the perfect destination for Strictly Come Dancing.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
Tim Burton’s film Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, an adaptation of the 2011 novel written by American author Ransom Riggs, was shot on-location at some of the town’s most iconic locations including The Blackpool Tower and the Tower Circus. Also making an appearance were the North Pier, Comedy Carpet and the Promenade.
Cinderella (2021)
The world-famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom was transformed into an elegant palace for Amazon’s live-action movie, Cinderella. The romantic musical comedy featured Hollywood stars including Camila Cabello, Billy Porter and musical legend Menzel as Vivian. Camila, who played Cinderella in the film, enjoyed her time in Blackpool so much that she celebrated her 23rd birthday with a bash at the top of the Tower.
Other notable films and TV shows filmed in the town include BBC’s Top Gear (2020), Disney+’s live-action series Andor (2022) and the fifth series of British comedy TV series Brassic (2019 – present).
For further information to enquire about filming in Blackpool please visit – https://www.visitblackpool.com/contact/filming-in-blackpool/
