Plymouth Film Office
Devon Film Office is proud to work on behalf of Plymouth City Council, managing all filming enquiries, permissions and permits.
Known as Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth offers a rich and versatile backdrop for film and television productions. From historic maritime landmarks to striking urban landscapes, the city provides a diverse range of locations within a compact and production-friendly area. Settings such as Royal William Yard and Smeaton’s Tower sit alongside streetscapes featuring classic Georgian architecture and bold Brutalist design—ideal for original storytelling, convincing location doubles, and period drama.
Plymouth’s spectacular coastline opens up even more possibilities. Dramatic cliffs, rugged rocky shores, and sweeping sandy beaches are all easily accessible, offering productions a wealth of cinematic environments. Locations including Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, along with popular coastal spots such as Wembury and Bovisand, provide breathtaking natural backdrops that capture the power and beauty of the South West coast.
INTERESTED IN FILMING IN PLYMOUTH?
If you are considering filming in Plymouth, we can help you unlock some of the city’s iconic assets, along with hidden gems. We can offer a wealth of advice and recommendations and connect you quickly to the right people and places.
DEVON FILM OFFICE
Filming FAQ’s
I would like to film in Plymouth. What do I need to do?
Devon Film Office is happy to serve as the Film Office for Plymouth City Council and we can help and advise on locations and permits for all filming activity in the city. In the first instance, we would ask you to get in touch as soon as you are able to, outlining where you would like to film and the dates/times, as well as a brief description of your project. It is helpful also to know how big your crew is and what equipment you plan to use – for example, a drone, which would require a separate permit. We can then advise on land/property ownership and, if it is council-owned, assist with permits. If you are looking to film on privately owned land, we can help signpost you to the relevant landowner.
What documents will I need to provide?
For all commercial shoots we will require a copy of your Public Liability insurance (a minimum of £5 million cover) and your risk assessment, before permission can be given.
If you wish to use a drone, other documents will be required. Please see the question regarding drone usage for more information.
Are there council-owned properties that I can use to film?
Plymouth has a wealth of interesting and unique council-owned buildings and spaces that you may like to consider for your filming, from the iconic Smeaton’s Tower, to the historic Elizabethan House and Tinside Lido on the waterfront. If you have somewhere in mind, or need inspiration, please get in touch.
I would like to film on council-owned land. Do I need permission?
Yes, you will need permission to film on, or in, any council-owned land or property. We can assist with this.
Can I film on roads in Plymouth?
It is possible to film on Plymouth’s highways and we will be able to advise, depending on the nature of your plans.
Please note, if your shoot will require a road closure or parking suspensions, you will need to allow ample time for your application to be reviewed and processed. Do let us know of your plans as soon as possible, so we can help.
Do I need permission to film on, or near, the waterfront?
Yes, Plymouth has several areas of waterfront under different management and we can advise on who will be able to give permission to film. You may also require separate permission if you wish to film on the water.
Can I film using a drone in Plymouth?
Yes, it is possible to use a UAS, or done, when filming.
Plymouth City Council has a Drone Policy, which includes health and safety standards for drone operations and applies to third party commercial operators seeking permission to take off/land on council-owned land. We are happy to share the specifics related to film crews.
To request permission to use a drone, you will need to fill out an application form and return it to us at least 5 days in advance of your planned shoot.
How long will it take to gain approval to film?
We aim to help process filming requests as quickly as possible, but this will depend on the scope of your filming and what is involved.
Are there costs to film in Plymouth?
If you would like to film on Council-owned land requiring a permit, there will be a permit fee.
Additionally, there are some assets in the city that charge a location fee. Please get in touch to discuss your requirements.
Private locations will need to be contacted individually regarding their fees.
Where can I get advice and recommendations on other aspects of my shoot?
Devon Film Office is very happy to help and support film and TV productions with recommendations on a wide range of issues, from locations to local crew and suppliers. Please get in touch with your requirements.
