UK’s Somerset Council Sees Economic Boom Through Film and TV Productions

Somerset Council Sees Economic Boom Through Film and TV Productions

Somerset Council is leveraging the booming UK film and television industry to establish the county as a key destination for blockbuster productions. According to a recent BBC report, the council’s proactive efforts through its Screen Somerset initiative have resulted in nearly £3 million of production spending in the past year—a significant rise from the £1.1 million recorded in the previous financial year.

Promoting Somerset’s Scenic Diversity

Screen Somerset, operated by the council, has been instrumental in showcasing the region’s stunning and varied landscapes to the film industry. Locations such as Cheddar Gorge, Shepton Mallet, and Minehead have hosted high-end productions, including scenes for 28 Years Later and Broadchurch. Councillor Mike Rigby, lead member for economic development, emphasized that these efforts not only bring immediate economic benefits but also position Somerset as a film-friendly destination with long-term tourism potential.

“We have a stunning and varied county,” Rigby told the BBC, “and it’s fantastic to see so many productions coming our way as Screen Somerset raises our profile on the national and international stage.”

Visit Somerset’s Strategic Partnerships

Earlier this year, John Turner, CEO of Visit Somerset, praised the county’s growing recognition in the film world. In a statement published on the Somerset Council website, Turner highlighted how the partnership with Screen Somerset is helping local businesses maximize the opportunities created by film-induced tourism. He added, “The whole film location movement is really helping to ensure Somerset is seen in a new light.”

Infrastructure to Support Growth

Beyond marketing Somerset’s diverse portfolio of film locations, Screen Somerset has streamlined production logistics by working closely with council departments such as highways and property services. This ensures smooth operations for film crews, encouraging repeat visits from the industry. Local accommodation providers have also been encouraged to position themselves as suitable lodgings for production teams, further embedding the economic benefits across the community.

A Legacy of Iconic Productions

Somerset’s appeal as a filming destination is underscored by its past appearances in renowned films and TV series. Wells served as the backdrop for Hot Fuzz, while the haunting drama The Levelling was filmed in Burrowbridge after the Somerset Levels flooding. Such productions not only boost the local economy but also leave a lasting imprint on Somerset’s identity as a cinematic destination.

Bath’s Film Tourism Efforts

Meanwhile, Bath, another key location in the region, is also taking significant steps to capitalize on its cinematic appeal. In September, Bath Business reported on efforts by Bath’s Film Office to attract tourists by highlighting its role in popular productions like Bridgerton and McDonald & Dodds.

The city recently hosted international journalists from Germany, Canada, India, and China to showcase unique film-related experiences. Highlights included visits to the Holburne Museum, which features as Lady Danbury’s House in Bridgerton, as well as a hot air balloon tour offering panoramic views of Bath’s Georgian architecture.

Kathryn Davis, managing director of Visit West, noted how Bath’s resurgence as a filming hub has introduced the city to global audiences. Davis emphasized the importance of integrating these iconic filming locations responsibly into the visitor experience to ensure longer stays and broader exploration of the region.

Looking Ahead

With Somerset and Bath actively leveraging their cinematic heritage, the region is becoming a significant player in the UK’s film-induced tourism market. Both areas demonstrate how strategic marketing, local partnerships, and infrastructure support can transform screen appeal into sustained economic growth.