The UK is home to some of the world’s most iconic and influential film studios, attracting global productions, blockbuster movies, streaming series and high-end commercials. From historic names like Pinewood and Shepperton to newly completed state-of-the-art facilities, the country offers studio spaces that rival Hollywood in scale and capability. Whether you’re a producer scouting studio options, a location professional looking for space, or simply curious about the UK’s production landscape, this guide rounds up the biggest film studios across the nation.
Pinewood Studios – A Legendary Film Destination
Pinewood Studios is arguably the most famous film production facility in the UK, with a storied history dating back to the 1930s. Known for its world-class sound stages and bespoke production services, Pinewood has hosted major Hollywood franchises — including James Bond, Star Wars and Marvel titles — making it a production hub for both British and international filmmakers.
Located in Buckinghamshire, Pinewood remains one of the largest and most versatile studio complexes in the UK, offering a wide range of sound stages, workshops, technical support and backlot space that cater to feature films, TV series and studio-based commercials.
Shepperton Studios – Growing into a Global Powerhouse
Just a short distance from Pinewood, Shepperton Studios has evolved into one of the UK’s most expansive film production sites. With over 30 purpose-built stages and extensive production facilities, Shepperton has been the base for countless films — from period pieces to big-budget blockbusters — and continues to expand with additional stages and workshop space.
The studio’s recent development has placed it among the largest film production complexes worldwide, with major companies like Netflix and Amazon MGM Studios committing long-term stage leases.
Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden – Blockbuster Destination
Located near Watford, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden is a centrepiece of the UK’s film industry and a perennial favourite for major feature films. The oversized stages and custom facilities here have been the backbone of global franchises, including Harry Potter and DC Comics titles, establishing Leavesden as one of the most important production facilities in Europe.
Shinfield Studios – New and Modern Production Space
One of the biggest recent additions to the UK studio landscape is Shinfield Studios in Berkshire. Completed in 2024, this fully-operational facility features multiple expansive sound stages — including some of the largest in the country — alongside modern production offices, workshop areas and a backlot capable of supporting major film and TV shoots.
Already attracting significant productions and world-class crews, Shinfield represents a new generation of UK studio facilities built for today’s high-end media demands.
Other Major UK Studios
Beyond the “big four”, the UK offers a diverse array of production facilities:
- Elstree Studios – Historic London-area studio with a long legacy of film and TV production.
- Longcross Studios – Large production site in Surrey popular for both feature films and TV.
- 3 Mills Studios & West London Spaces – Central London facilities often used for small to mid-size productions.
- Regional Hubs – Studios like Space Studios Manchester, The Bottle Yard in Bristol and Belfast Harbour Studios serve growing creative markets across the UK.
A Growing Industry Backed by Creative Investment
The expansion of UK film studios reflects a broader boom in production activity. International studios, streaming giants, and independent filmmakers are increasingly choosing the UK for its infrastructure, tax incentives and creative workforce. In recent years, UK production spending has surged, with inward investment from Hollywood and streaming platforms driving high-value projects across the country.
From traditional giants like Pinewood and Shepperton to recently completed facilities like Shinfield, the UK’s studio landscape continues to grow — making it one of the most dynamic production environments in the world.
