Lincolnshire has provided the backdrop for a wide range of productions, drawing visitors eager to experience the magic of film and TV firsthand. From Bridgerton Season 3 (2024) and Napoleon (2023) to beloved TV series like Downton Abbey, Sherwood, Wild Bill, and Bodies, the county has become a sought-after filming destination.
Visitors can follow in the footsteps of Tom Hanks as he unravelled mysteries in The Da Vinci Code or stand in the very room where Imelda Staunton portrayed Queen Elizabeth II in The Crown. This growing trend of travelling to filming locations, known as ‘set-jetting’ by VisitEngland, is reshaping tourism.
THE POWER OF FILM AND TV
- Expedia Group: Nearly 30% of travellers now say that TV shows and movies influence their travel plans.
- British Film Institute (BFI): In 2019, inbound tourists spent an estimated £892.6 million on film-related screen tourism in the UK, with over 50% of international travellers citing films and TV shows as their inspiration.
- Netflix: Subscribers are 2.4 times more likely to add a destination to their must-visit list after seeing it featured in a show.
Lincolnshire’s cinematic appeal is a powerful draw for visitors, offering unique experiences and unforgettable connections to their favourite on-screen moments.
UK SUCCESS STORIES
the impact of screen tourism
Screen tourism has proven to be a powerful driver of visitor numbers and economic growth. Here are some standout examples from across the UK:
- Happy Valley (BBC): Hotel searches in Yorkshire, the drama’s setting, surged by 105% following its release.
- Castle Howard (Bridgerton): After the show’s debut, website visits from the 18-24 age group skyrocketed by over 3400%.
- Peaky Blinders (BBC): Birmingham saw a 26% increase in visitor numbers after the first season aired, according to the West Midlands Growth Company.
- Alnwick Castle (Harry Potter): Hosting the first two films in the series contributed to a 230% rise in visitors between 2011 and 2013, generating an additional £9 million for the local economy.
Screen tourism continues to transform destinations, driving awareness, attracting new audiences, and delivering significant economic benefits.
seizing screen tourism opportunities
VisitLincolnshire.com now features dedicated pages highlighting Lincolnshire’s film and TV locations, inspiring visitors to explore these iconic sites.
GET INVOLVED
Feature Your Business:
If your business has been a filming location, let us know! We’re always looking to expand this section. Businesses near filming sites – whether accommodations, restaurants, or attractions – can also benefit from being featured, so ensure your Visit Lincolnshire listing is up to date.
Leverage Social Media:
Productions and trending series often have vibrant, far-reaching social media campaigns. If filming has occurred nearby, join the conversation by tagging relevant accounts, making connections, and showcasing your location’s role in the story.
Be Part of Itineraries:
We’re crafting new itineraries that link filming locations across Lincolnshire, encouraging extended stays and exploration. If your business is near a filming site, let us know – you could be included in these exciting travel plans.
SUPPORTING THE INDUSTRY
film office services
Lincolnshire is committed to being a ‘film-friendly’ destination, and we’ve introduced a dedicated Film Office Service to support this goal.
Promoting Lincolnshire:
Showcasing the county as an attractive filming location to the TV, film, and media industries.
Industry Support:
Handling enquiries, connecting productions with key partners like Creative England and Location Lincs, and assisting with operational needs such as highways access, parking permits, and location scout visits.
Facilitating Local Services:
Linking productions with essential services, including catering, accommodation, crew, and security, to ensure smooth operations while maximising economic benefits for local businesses
For more information, visit Lincolnshire’s TV and Film Location Service where you can also download the Filming in Lincolnshire brochure.
