Thanks to its stunning architecture and cultural attractions, it’s easy to see why so many directors have called ‘action!’ in Birmingham over the years. From popular TV shows like Line of Duty to Hollywood hits like Ready Player One, this vibrant city has been the setting for hundreds of shoots. So, whether you fancy exploring the Jewellery Quarter or taking a stroll along Colmore Row, our handy list will keep you #InnTheKnow about these must-see filming locations if you’re looking for free days out in Birmingham. Plus, when you’re ready to call ‘cut!’, our family friendly hotels in Birmingham will be waiting to welcome you with our great-value restaurants, free Wi-Fi and super-comfy beds.
Best filming locations to visit for free in Birmingham
The Queen’s Arms
The Queen’s Arms – Line of Duty
Fans of this intense crime drama might recognise The Exchange – formerly the Birmingham Municipal Bank – as this Grade II listed building near Centenary Square was the original office for the AC-12 unit in the show. But possibly the most popular Birmingham attraction for Line of Duty fans to visit is the Queen’s Arms, a Grade II listed pub on Newhall Street inside which this hit BBC series filmed several scenes in its first season. Why not pop in for a drink after exploring the Jewellery Quarter nearby?
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in Birmingham? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel.
Jewellery Quarter
Jewellery Quarter – Ready Player One
Birmingham got a glimpse of Hollywood royalty when Steven Spielberg came to film back in 2016! Spaghetti Junction and the Jewellery Quarter were used as shooting locations for the sci-fi movie Ready Player One, which saw spots like Newhall Street and Ludgate Hill transformed into a dystopian US city for this exciting adaptation of Ernest Cline’s novel.
Even if you haven’t seen the movie though, this vibrant, cultural hub is unmissable on Birmingham short breaks!
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in Birmingham? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre Bridge Street hotel.
Digbeth
Digbeth – My Name Is Leon
Adapted from Kit De Waal’s best-selling novel and starring our very own Sir Lenny Henry CBE, scenes for this BBC adaptation were shot in Digbeth in 2021, just a short drive away from the city centre. Alcester Street and Bradford Street were transformed into 1980s Birmingham, providing the backdrop for this moving story, complete with period cars and store fronts. Even if you’ve yet to read the book or watch the show though, it’s well worth a walk along Bradford Street by the River Rea on Birmingham breaks – the place is packed with culture!
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in Birmingham? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (New St Station) hotel.
Colmore Row
Colmore Row – Kingsman: The Golden Circle
Kingsman fans or Birmingham locals might just be able to spot Colmore Row in Matthew Vaughn’s 2017 sequel. Located right next to Birmingham city centre and St. Philip’s Cathedral, this historic road was used as a stand in for London to shoot an action-packed car chase scene! When it’s not being used as a filming location for the big screen, though, this idyllic street is perfect if you fancy a scenic stroll on Birmingham breaks, thanks to its rows of historic buildings and little Cathedral Square oasis.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in Birmingham? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel.
And, if you don’t mind paying an entry fee, you could visit . . .
Black Country Living Museum
Black Country Living Museum – Peaky Blinders
Despite this hugely popular series being set in 1920s Birmingham, Peaky Blinders fans might be surprised to learn that most of its scenes are actually shot in cities such as Liverpool, Leeds and Manchester. Some of the show’s most infamous and iconic scenes, however, were shot at the Black Country Living Museum, one of Birmingham’s top family attractions. Described by show creator Steven Knight as ‘the heart’ of the series, this museum in Dudley is the location for Charlie Strong’s Yard, an anchor forge that the Shelby brothers visit frequently throughout the series.
Thinking of booking Premier Inn hotels in Birmingham? The nearest one to this attraction is our Premier Inn Dudley Town Centre hotel.
So, whether you’re a fan of these films and TV shows or you’re just looking for an excuse to get your steps in, these filming locations in Birmingham are ideal places to explore. Plus, if you’re looking for other free things to do in Birmingham, check out our list of places to take the kids and galleries and museums for a little innspiration.