Forget the sun-drenched boulevards of Los Angeles; a new cinematic powerhouse is emerging in the heart of Greater Manchester. The town of Bolton, with its rich industrial past, is now proudly known as the 'Hollywood of the North', trading textile looms for television crews and becoming a prime UK filming location.
An Industrial Past Meets a Cinematic Present
Bolton's story is one of remarkable transformation. Historically, it was a global epicentre for cotton spinning during the Industrial Revolution, once boasting more than 200 cotton mills. Today, that legacy is etched into the very fabric of the town, not through industry, but through its stunning Victorian architecture. The grand, cobbled streets and imposing civic buildings that once symbolised its manufacturing might are now its biggest draw for major production companies.
This architectural appeal has proven irresistible to filmmakers. In 2023 alone, crews from broadcasting giants like Netflix, the BBC, and ITV spent a staggering 88 days filming across the town. This prolific activity has cemented Bolton's reputation as a versatile and sought-after backdrop for some of television's biggest shows.
Iconic Locations and A-List Spotting
Certain locations in Bolton have become veritable stars in their own right. Le Mans Crescent, with its sweeping curved facade, is a particular favourite. It has been transformed on screen, most notably doubling as 1920s London for the hit series Peaky Blinders. Similarly, the town's magnificent Town Hall and the old Magistrates' Court building have provided the perfect setting for everything from dramatic court scenes in Coronation Street to the opulent interiors for A Gentleman in Moscow.
Where there are major productions, A-list stars are never far behind. Residents of Bolton have had the thrill of spotting actors like Cillian Murphy, Ewan McGregor, Adrian Dunbar, and Jodie Whittaker filming on their streets, adding a genuine touch of Hollywood glamour to the town and solidifying its new nickname.
A Growing Portfolio of Prestige Productions
The list of television dramas and series that have utilised Bolton's unique scenery is extensive and continues to grow. The town's portfolio includes critically acclaimed shows such as:
- Happy Valley
- It's a Sin
- The Full Monty
- Peaky Blinders
- Brassic
- Ridley
- Alma's Not Normal
- Red Rose
This impressive roster demonstrates the incredible versatility of Bolton as a location, capable of representing everything from Soviet-era Moscow to gritty Northern English towns. The filming boom shows no signs of slowing down, with productions continuing to flock to the town throughout 2024, ensuring that the 'Hollywood of the North' continues to shine brightly on the small screen.
