Manchester’s no stranger to the camera — from gritty indie shoots in Ancoats to commercial projects in the city centre, it’s a northern powerhouse for filmmakers on a budget. Looking for cheap filming locations in Manchester? You’re in the right place. With affordable studios in Bradford, converted warehouses in Ardwick, and bright creative spaces in Cheetham Hill and the Northern Quarter, there’s no shortage of spots that pack a punch while being easy on the pocket. Whether you're shooting a short, setting up a music video, or just need solid lighting and flexible access, this city has your back. Many locations offer hourly hire, making it easy to book just what you need — no frills, no fuss. Scroll down to compare your best options.
In Manchester, prices of cheap filming locations average £50 hire fee per hour. The cost depends on capacity, location, and equipment available. Some spaces may offer lower prices on certain days of the week, so make sure to keep an eye out for discounted options. You can find options that offer packages with crew or professional gear, which can also affect the booking costs. Here's a breakdown of price ranges in Manchester on Tagvenue (data from December 2025):
| From £40 | to £85 | hire fee per hour |
| From £500 | to £1620 | hire fee per day |
| From £1000 | to £2000 | minimum spend per event |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated December 2025), the best options include:
Studio 3 (Natural Light) at The Photocove
in Bradford - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘The staff on location were incredibly helpful and welcoming.’
The Blackout Room at Submerged Spaces
in Bradford - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘Was great space, will definitely use again...’
Event & Workshop Space at Wellington Studios
in Bradford - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘Quiet and airy space, great for filming and looked good on camera.’
These are the venues within 0.3 mi from central Manchester, available to book on Tagvenue:
If you're looking to keep costs low, studios in Bradford (Manchester) offer some of the most competitive hourly rates. Dove Space Studio starts from about £35/hr, while VisualVerse Studios offers spaces from approximately £30–£40/hr. These venues are ideal for smaller productions and shoots with tight schedules.
Yes. Cultplex in Cheetham Hill offers space for up to 150 standing from around £100/hr, great for larger shoots or event-based filming. Submerged Spaces in Bradford also has a larger unit accommodating up to 200 people, starting from £95/hr, perfect for building sets or filming with crews.
If you're filming on public land — like streets, parks, or outside buildings — you’ll likely need a permit from Manchester City Council. Private indoor venues listed on Tagvenue typically don’t require separate permits, but it’s always smart to double-check if you're using an external kit outdoors or need exclusive access around the venue.
Not all venues are soundproof, especially those in older industrial buildings or multi-use creative hubs. If you’re recording dialogue or sound-sensitive content, look for spaces that mention sound insulation or check if the venue is located away from main roads or rail lines.
Page last updated in December 2025
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