Famous Films That Were Filmed in Bristol

Since our TV Shows Filmed in Bristol blog was such a hit, we’re back with something a little different! Bristol is not just the backdrop for fantastic TV shows but has also been the setting for some brilliant films. Whether you knew it or not, this historic city has lent its streets, architecture, and atmosphere to numerous productions.

The city has been home to the famous Bottle Yard Studios, one of the largest production facilities in the country, and is well-known for its stunning Georgian streets and iconic landmarks, which provide filmmakers plenty to work with. Whether it’s period dramas, comedies, or thrillers, Bristol has been an ideal filming location for decades.

Let’s dive into some films you may (or may not) know were filmed in the city. Looking for something to watch as we head into the colder months? Add these to your autumn movie list!

Starter for 10 (2006)

Genre: Comedy / Romance

Starring: James McAvoy, Rebecca Hall, Benedict Cumberbatch, Catherine Tate, and James Cordon

Brian Jackson (James McAvoy), a working-class youth from Essex, gets a chance to prove himself when he is accepted to respected Bristol University. As Brian navigates his way through his first year there, he finds romance with two pretty students (Alice Eve, Rebecca Hall) and tries out for a popular TV program called “University Challenge.”

Radio On (1979)

Genre: Mystery / Thriller

Starring: Paul Hollywood and Sting

Radio On takes viewers on a slow, atmospheric journey across Britain in the late 1970s. The film follows a man as he drives from London to Bristol to investigate his brother’s death. Along the way, he encounters an eclectic group of people, all set against a moody, almost dreamlike vision of Britain.

Golden Years (2016)

Genre: Comedy / Action

Starring: Bernard Hill and Virginia McKenna

This action-comedy centres around Arthur and Martha, a retired couple who aren’t about to let the loss of their pensions ruin their golden years. Instead, they turn to bank robbery to reclaim what they feel is rightfully theirs.

White Nights (1985)

Genre: Thriller / War

Starring: Helen Mirren, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Gregory Hines

In this Cold War thriller, a Russian ballet dancer is forced to return to the Soviet Union after a plane crash. There, he teams up with a disillusioned performer, and together they plot an escape. Though much of the film is set abroad, key scenes were shot in Bristol, can you spot them?

Some People (1962)

Genre: Musical / Drama

Starring: Kenneth More and Angela Douglas

Set in 1960s Bristol, Some People is a musical drama about a group of teenagers who form a rock band. The film showcases the city during this era, giving viewers a nostalgic glimpse into what the city was once like. It’s a great pick if you love classic cinema with a Bristol twist.

In The Dark Half (2011)

Genre: Horror / Mystery

Starring: Tony Curran, Lyndsey Marshal, and Jessica Barden

Marie, a young girl, occasionally babysits her neighbour’s son. However, when he dies, she becomes obsessed with the stories of vengeful spirits her neighbour used to share.

Six fantastic films, each with its own Bristol connection. Let us know which one you’ll be watching first!

Published: 14.10.24 by Phoebe Clutton