As the profile of filming in the North East continues to grow, North East Screen is showcasing the region’s impressive locations to industry professionals from across the UK through a series of ‘Scout About’ familiarisation trips.
These trips highlight the diverse filming opportunities available across the region by targeting key decision-makers like location managers. North East Screen is committed to promoting both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Each themed trip spans two days, showcasing the diversity of striking locations – from historic castles and dramatic coastlines to cityscapes, industrial landscapes, and scenic countryside.
In 2024, experienced location managers, with credits including ‘House of the Dragon’, ‘Bridgerton’, and ‘No Time To Die’, have toured prominent sites such as Wynyard Hall, Raby Estate, and Bamburgh Castle. They also explored the industrial landscapes of Tees Valley and beaches of Northumberland. One location manager remarked, ‘The North East has now been opened in my mind as a potential filming location where before I knew very little about it. Beamish was so unexpected, and I was really amazed by it.’
Katie Strachan, the film office Manager, noted, ‘As a busy film office, we understand there is no better way to get a feel of an area or location than to visit in person. Our trips are aimed at esteemed location managers from outside the North East. It’s a chance for us to showcase unique locations and varied landscapes, as well as how filming-friendly we are. It also offers the opportunity for our visitors to meet industry contacts, businesses, and suppliers and get a better understanding of how we can best support productions filming in the region.’
Another location manager praised the organisation of the trips, saying, ‘The North East Screen Film Office were amazing hosts and guides. They kept everything moving smoothly and we spent the perfect amount of time at each location, so I tip my hat to them.’
The next series of ‘Scout Abouts’ is scheduled for October and November. The October trip will have a Halloween theme, spotlighting the region’s uncanny and atmospheric locations, whereas the November trip will focus on period settings, exploring the North East’s rich history and heritage. Both trips will cover the length and breadth of the North East, with final sites to be confirmed.
Furthermore, productions looking to film in the region can benefit from the North East Production Fund, designed to support high-end returning TV and major feature film productions. This fund, combined with the region’s stunning variety of locations and experienced local crews, makes the North East an attractive option for basing projects.
The ‘Scout About’ trips by North East Screen offer a comprehensive showcase of the region’s filming locations, making it an enticing option for industry professionals.