What's Being Filmed Around Reading? And Where to Stay as Film Staff

Why Reading Has Become a Major UK Filming Destination

The Heart of Berkshire's Film Renaissance is Arborfield Studios 

Arborfield Studios is one of the UK's most coveted filming destinations, strategically positioned in Barkham, Wokingham. This impressive facility boasts three state-of-the-art sound stages complemented by three main office buildings and six large workshop facilities, all set within two expansive backlot areas that provide filmmakers with unlimited creative possibilities.

What's being filmed at Arborfield Studios currently showcases the venue's versatility and appeal. The studio's cutting-edge technology and versatile spaces have attracted some of cinema's most ambitious projects. Disney's live-action Aladdin utilised Arborfield's vast stages for its elaborate musical sequences. At the same time, Netflix's The Witcher and its spin-off, The Witcher: Blood Origin, transformed the studios into fantastical medieval worlds. Arborfield Studios filming projects demonstrate the facility's ability to accommodate diverse genres, with the Christmas musical Jingle Jangle having chosen Arborfield for its magical storytelling.

What sets Arborfield apart is its perfect blend of technical sophistication and practical accessibility. International production companies consistently choose this facility for its professional infrastructure and proximity to London, making it an ideal choice for both British and Hollywood productions seeking European locations with world-class amenities. If you’re looking for accommodation near Arborfield Studios, click here to learn more about Bond House, only 10 km away.

Bray Studios is Where Streaming Giants Meet Classic Cinema

The prestigious Bray Studios, nestled in the picturesque setting of Down Place, Water Oakley, Windsor, is the perfect marriage of cinematic heritage and modern production capabilities. The studio has become synonymous with high-profile streaming content, with Amazon Prime Video Bray Studios partnerships leading the charge, most notably serving as the production home for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power since 2022.

Bray's roster is impressive; the studio provided the backdrop for the Academy Award-winning Rocketman, Elton John's biographical masterpiece that captivated audiences worldwide. The beloved Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! also chose Bray for some sequences, proving the studio's versatility across genres from intimate character studies to spectacular musical productions.

The studio's enduring appeal lies in its unique combination of traditional British filmmaking excellence and contemporary technical capabilities. If you’re looking for accommodation near Bray Studios, click here to learn more about Riverside House or Sussex House, only 15km away.

Shinfield Studios is the UK’s newest Blockbuster Factory

Thames Valley Science Park near Reading houses the UK's most ambitious new production facility: Shinfield Studios. This remarkable 18-stage complex was opened in phases over the past three years, reaching full operational capacity in the spring of 2024. The facility's rapid rise to prominence underscores the increasing demand for world-class production spaces outside of London.

Since opening its doors, Shinfield has attracted Hollywood's biggest names and most demanding productions. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire utilised the expansive sound stages for its supernatural action sequences, whilst The Magic Faraway Tree, starring Clare Foy, brought beloved children's literature to life within these cutting-edge facilities. Netflix's Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story chose Shinfield for its lavish period settings, and LucasFilm selected the studio for Star Wars spinoff The Acolyte.

British filmmakers have equally benefited from Shinfield's capabilities. From intimate period dramas to contemporary thrillers, the studios accommodate an impressive diversity of productions, proving that world-class facilities can serve both blockbuster franchises and critically acclaimed independent films with equal effectiveness. If you’re looking for accommodation near Shinfield Studios, click here to learn more about The Faculty and Wellington House, which are only 8km away.

Longcross Studios: From Mission: Impossible to Fantasy Epics

Finally, Longcross Studios in Chertsey is also attracting some of cinema's most ambitious projects. The facility's reputation for handling complex action sequences makes it a favourite amongst A-list productions requiring sophisticated stunt work and elaborate set pieces.

The studio's versatility shines through its diverse project portfolio, from death-defying Mission: Impossible Longcross Studios sequences that push the boundaries of practical filmmaking to the magical realms of fantasy productions. This adaptability, combined with state-of-the-art technical capabilities, ensures Longcross is a preferred choice for directors and producers seeking to realise their most challenging creative visions.

Where to Base Yourself as Film Crew

For film industry professionals working across these four major studios, Celador Apartments provides the ideal accommodation solution. Strategically positioned to offer convenient access to Arborfield, Bray, Shinfield, and Longcross Studios, these properties cater to the unique needs of film crews and visiting cast members.

Whether you're part of a long-term production team or visiting talent, Celador Apartments offer the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and professional amenities that film industry professionals demand. From flexible booking arrangements to locations that minimise travel time between studios, these accommodations are designed with the entertainment industry's demanding schedules in mind.

Staying with Celador Apartments minimises travel time whilst maximising comfort. Whether you're part of a long-term production team or visiting talent, these accommodations are designed with the entertainment industry's demanding schedules in mind, providing the perfect combination of convenience and professional amenities.

Your Home from Home Near Berkshire’s Film Studios

Our apartments’ locations provide easy access to all of these studios and Reading's vast array of amenities. After a long day of filming, our guests can enjoy the town's restaurants, pubs and entertainment venues, all within minutes of their temporary home. Contact Celador Apartments today to discover why film professionals consistently choose our properties for their Reading-area productions.