Bolton Emerges as the ‘Hollywood of the North’
Bolton is rapidly solidifying its identity as the ‘Hollywood of the North.’ This transformation is largely credited to the recent launch of the Bolton Film Office. Its goal is to capitalize on the borough’s unique architecture and vibrant film scene.
Bolton: A Filming Hub
The town features well-preserved Victorian and neoclassical architecture that draws filmmakers. Key sites include the Town Hall and Le Mans Crescent, renowned for their cobbled streets and striking backdrops. Productions frequently utilize these locations to depict various historical periods.
Recent Productions
Since 2020, Bolton has attracted 95 productions and hosted 370 filming days. These range from student projects to high-end television series. Notable shows filmed in Bolton include:
- Peaky Blinders
- Happy Valley
- It’s a Sin
- Brassic
- Top Gear
- Alma’s Not Normal
- Coronation Street
- Cobra
- Years and Years
- Ridley
- Red Rose
- Sherwood
- Talamasca
Major networks such as BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Netflix, Paramount+, and Sky have featured the town’s unique character in their productions.
Cultural and Economic Impact
The Bolton Film Office aims to increase the borough’s film production capabilities, offering an ‘affordable’ shooting location. Bolton’s local talent pool is equipped to assist filmmakers, fostering collaboration with the University of Greater Manchester.
Film tourism is another focus, with initiatives to celebrate Bolton’s screen heritage. Earlier this year, the Bolton Council reported that filming contributes approximately £250,000 annually to the local economy. In the last three years, filming in the town generated £1.3 million for production companies.
Notable Filming Locations
Le Mans Crescent stands out as a prime site, featuring an iconic archway and historical architecture. It often stands in for London’s Whitehall, Marble Arch, and Admiralty Arch. Recent productions filmed in this location include:
- Peaky Blinders
- It’s a Sin
- Cold Feet
- Traces
- Ridley
Additionally, the old magistrates’ court and police station offer versatile filming spaces. It features two courtrooms, cells, and extending corridors. Productions such as Happy Valley and Coronation Street have utilized these areas for various scenes.
Community Engagement
The new film office promotes community involvement in the arts, connecting with local actors and creatives. The office also provides location support and guidance for filmmakers, ensuring ease of access to Bolton’s diverse spaces. Councillor Nadeem Ayub emphasized the potential for Bolton to grow as a cultural destination.
Overall, with its rich history and evolving film industry, Bolton is poised to maintain its status as a prominent filming location, further engraving its title as the ‘Hollywood of the North.’
