Leeds has not only given birth to many actors, actresses, and media personalities but has also frequently appeared on camera as a filming location for movies and TV shows. The city’s stunning scenery and architectural gems make it a natural choice for filmmakers. Today, let’s explore the cinematic history of Leeds and its role as a backdrop for iconic productions. Learn more on leeds-trend.com.
Leeds: A Hub for Popular TV Shows and Movies
Did you know that the BBC series Better was filmed in Leeds? This police thriller explores the life of an officer seeking change, with leading roles played by Leila Farzad and Andrew Buchan.
The first scene of the series was shot at “Grand Pacific,” a bar within the Queens Hotel located on City Square. Built in 1937 in a Grade II-listed Art Deco style, the hotel features designs by William Curtis Green. Fun fact: its construction used two million bricks and 40,000 cubic feet of Portland stone.
Another key filming location was the Corn Exchange, a Grade I-listed building designed by British architect Cuthbert Brodrick and opened in 1864 as a trading hub for corn merchants. Its unique architecture made it a natural choice for the series. Additionally, the business district of Bond Court is also prominently featured.
The show Happy Valley was filmed in and around Leeds, including locations such as Halifax, Sowerby Bridge, Hebden Bridge, Ripponden, and Calderdale. The series also prominently features Leeds railway station and Europe’s largest covered market, Kirkgate Market. Established in 1822 as an open-air market, its first covered sections were built decades later, and it has since been listed as a Grade I historic site.
The Nine-Year Journey of Peaky Blinders in Leeds
The drama Peaky Blinders, which tells the story of the Shelby family in the early 20th century, was filmed in Leeds for nine years. Several episodes feature Leeds Town Hall, a grand municipal building designed by Cuthbert Brodrick in the 19th century. This Grade I-listed structure has served various purposes, including courts, council chambers, public halls, and ceremonial rooms.
The drama Bank of Dave also used Leeds as a filming location. Notable sites include Park Square, an area of greenery located in the city’s financial district. Park Square was established in 1788 and was once part of the upscale West End residential development.
Additional filming locations in Bank of Dave include the Duck and Drake pub, Union coffee shop, Dakota hotel, and Kendell’s Bistro. The key location, however, was Bowcliffe Hall in Bramham, just outside Leeds. Built in 1805 by William Robinson, the hall features ashlar limestone under a shallow slate roof and now serves as an office and event space.
Shibden Hall: A Popular Filming Location
The series Gentleman Jack also showcases the region’s charm, featuring the historic Shibden Hall. This Grade II-listed building, located in a public park in Shibden, dates back to 1420 and was once home to William Otes. The hall’s most famous resident, Anne Lister, chronicled her life and love for women in detailed diaries, earning her the title of “the first modern lesbian.”
Since 1934, the estate has operated as a museum, with its grounds serving as a public park. A major restoration in 2007–2008 cost £3.9 million. The hall also featured in the film Peterloo. Following the release of Gentleman Jack, museum visitor numbers tripled.
Leeds continues to be a favourite filming location, with its stunning historic sites and vibrant cityscape drawing filmmakers from across the globe. We hope this article has provided insight into the city’s cinematic heritage. What’s your favourite Leeds-filmed production? Share your thoughts with us on social media!
