The rolling green hills of Ireland and the dramatic coastlines of the UK are buzzing with more than just tourists. Hollywood’s elite are flocking to these shores, transforming the British Isles into a premier destination for major film and high-end television productions. A recently updated list of projects for 2026 reveals a packed schedule, signaling a sustained boom for the local film industry and offering a sneak peek at future travel hotspots for movie lovers.
Why the British Isles? A Perfect Storm of Incentives and Scenery
The attraction for global production companies is multi-faceted, combining financial pragmatism with creative appeal.
Generous Financial Incentives
Both the UK and Ireland offer highly competitive tax relief schemes that significantly reduce production costs. The UK’s High-End TV (HETV) and Film Tax Relief can provide a rebate of up to 25.5% on qualifying expenditure. Similarly, Ireland’s Section 481 incentive offers a tax credit of up to 32%, making it one of the most attractive in the world. These financial supports are a primary driver behind the surge in filming activity. According to the British Film Institute (BFI), the combined spending on film and HETV production in the UK reached a staggering £4.23 billion in 2023, demonstrating the immense scale of the industry. Ireland saw a similar boom, with production spending hitting a record €500 million in 2022, according to Screen Ireland.
World-Class Infrastructure and Diverse Landscapes
Beyond the numbers, the region boasts world-class studio facilities like Pinewood and Shepperton in the UK, alongside a deep pool of experienced, award-winning crew members. Critically, the diverse geography offers a chameleon-like ability to stand in for almost any location in the world. From the historic streets of Dublin to the rugged highlands of Scotland and the picturesque villages of Cornwall, the British Isles provide an endless supply of breathtaking backdrops.
On Location: Hotspots for Upcoming Blockbusters
The latest production updates highlight this diversity with several high-profile projects currently underway.
Cornwall’s Dramatic Coastline Stars in ‘The Housekeeper’
The ruggedly beautiful county of Cornwall in southwest England is currently hosting ‘The Housekeeper,’ a drama starring screen legends Helena Bonham Carter and Anthony Hopkins. Known for its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and charming fishing villages, Cornwall provides a quintessentially British setting that has previously featured in productions like ‘Poldark.’ The presence of such a star-studded cast is sure to draw future visitors eager to walk the same coastal paths.
Brad Pitt’s ‘The Riders’ Showcases Ireland’s Epic Vistas
Meanwhile, across the Irish Sea, superstar Brad Pitt is leading the cast of ‘The Riders.’ This major production has been filming across a swath of Ireland, utilizing the unique character of counties like Dublin, Wicklow, Kerry, and Cork. From the vibrant capital to the sweeping landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way, the film is set to be a stunning showcase of Ireland’s scenic beauty before its production moves on to Greece.
The Ripple Effect: Economic Windfalls and the Rise of Film Tourism
The impact of these productions extends far beyond the film set. They inject millions into local economies, supporting everything from hotels and catering services to construction and transport.
More importantly for travelers, this creates a powerful new wave of “film tourism.” Locations immortalized on screen often become pilgrimage sites for fans. Northern Ireland experienced a massive tourism boom thanks to ‘Game of Thrones,’ with fans flocking to see locations like The Dark Hedges and Castle Ward. Similarly, Alnwick Castle in England continues to draw ‘Harry Potter’ enthusiasts decades after its appearance as Hogwarts.
The projects currently filming are poised to create the next generation of must-see destinations. The quaint pubs of Dublin, the serene lakes of Wicklow, and the wild coastline of Kerry featured in ‘The Riders’ will likely see a surge in interest upon the film’s release.
Looking forward, the insatiable demand for content from streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon, and Disney+ ensures that the production pipeline for the UK and Ireland will remain full. For travelers, this means the British Isles are not just a destination rich in history and culture, but a living, evolving movie set where you can step into the worlds of your favorite stories. The next time you plan a trip, you might just find yourself in the middle of Hollywood’s latest masterpiece.
