Lights, Camera, Walk: A Cinematic Stroll Through Manchester's Film Locations
Written by Lucas Ryder Richardson
Embark on a cinematic journey through the storied streets of Manchester, where every cobblestone whispers tales of screen legends and iconic moments in film and television history. Starting in The Northern Quarter, stopping for drinks and nibbles along the way and finishing with a beautiful lunch spot by the canal. A perfect afternoon walk.
Shoes laced, ready to go? Check out Manchester’s top four filming locations below.
Duration: 1hr 30 - 2hr
1. The Northern Quarter
Films/TV Shows: Peaky Blinders, The Crown, Sherlock Holmes, Captain America: The First Avenger
Begin your journey amidst the atmospheric alleyways of Manchester's Northern Quarter, a haven for filmmakers seeking to capture the essence of bygone eras. This area is a favourite for filmmakers as Oldham Street, Swan Street and many other parts of the Northern Quarter are very similar to areas in New York, like Greenwich Village. In the back alleys, the fire escapes are almost identical to those found off Broadway.
Here, amongst the vintage charm and industrial grit, lies the spirit of The Peaky Blinders, where the streets come alive with the swagger of Tommy Shelby and the intrigue of post-war England. Although the iconic series takes place in Brum’s Small Heath, The Northern Quarter (and other parts of Manchester) has served as the backdrop for many episodes. The Castle Hotel, for example, where Tommy and Arthur meet Alfie Solomons in Season 2 Episode 1. As you weave through the labyrinthine lanes, see if you recognise any spots that have played host to Captain America and the enigmatic adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
Places to eat: In Season 3, Episode 2 of Sherlock the protagonist and his brother Mycroft meet at the trendy cafe: Ezra & Gil, where artisanal delights and creative cocktails await. The cafe's industrial-chic decor and relaxed ambience provided the perfect setting for the intense conversation between the two brothers.
Peaky Blinders spots: Take a trip to The Midland Hotel where Thomas Shelby meets with Luca Changretta in S4, EP.3, or St. Phillip’s Church in Salford where he meets Father John Hughes in S2, EP.6.
2. John Rylands Library
Film: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Darkest Hour
The next stop on your cinematic stroll is John Rylands Library, a neo-Gothic masterpiece that inspired The Hogwarts Library in the Harry Potter films. Here, amidst towering bookshelves and ancient tombs, the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, inviting you to embark on a literary adventure beyond imagination. In "Darkest Hour," the scene featuring the House of Commons library was also filmed here.
Note: The library is free to enter but closed on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
3. Albert Square
Films/TV Shows: Queer as Folk, 24 Hour Party People, Four Lions, Control
Continue your cinematic journey in the embrace of Albert Square, a symbol of Manchester's spirit immortalised in films like Queer as Folk and Four Lions. Albert Square is one of Manchester’s most iconic spots and is often featured in film and TV montages showcasing the city.
Places to eat: On the way to the final location, be sure to stop in for a drink at The Peaky Blinders themed pub: 23 Peter St, Manchester M2 5QR, United Kingdom.
Location 4: Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
Film: Cold Feet (1998)
This cinematic backdrop has been featured in the likes of the British television drama series Cold Feet. In Season 1, Episode 1, there's a scene where the characters Rachel and Adam meet at a canal-side location.
Places to eat: Savour the flavours of tradition at The Wharf, a riverside retreat nestled along the banks of the Bridgewater Canal in Castlefield. With its picturesque setting and hearty British fare, this hidden gem invites you to dine like royalty amidst the echoes of Manchester's industrial past.
Lucas Ryder Richardson is a keen writer with a passion for exploring cities and the outdoors. His BA degree in Philosophy helps him inspire others to immerse themselves in urban and rural landscapes.
