Visit Halton, the official tourism body for the borough, is excited to unveil a star-studded campaign that showcases Halton’s top-tier film destination history in film tourism.

From being a heritage holy ground, Halton has enriched the Northwest with its link to history and historical landmarks that have captured the eyes of film producers and film lovers from around the world. Halton sits nestled outside the city region of Liverpool as a hidden heritage hot spot, awaiting the deserved attention of city goers. As an undiscovered destination with unique charm and character, this borough offers the fascinating backdrop for various stories to hit the big screen. Let’s dive into some films that showcase the beauty and heritage of this remarkable borough! 

1. Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps

The iconic British sitcom Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps was set in Runcorn with lots of the shows filming taking place in Halton, bringing its distinct charm to the small screen. The picturesque famous pub, the Archer, is now a Buddhist Temple, Wat Phra Singh UK, welcome to visitors all year round.

2. The Tower

The ITV drama series The Tower was filmed at Runcorn Cemetery in Halton, Cheshire. This historic cemetery, situated within the borough of Halton, provided a striking backdrop that beautifully captured the area’s atmosphere and enhanced the show’s visual storytelling.

3. Antiques Road Show

The BBC’s Antique Road Show has taken to the streets of Halton, delving into its vibrant antique scene while highlighting the area’s rich heritage and history. Filming locations include the charming Bridgewater Arts and Craft Centre, where unique artifacts and treasures are ready to be found.

4. Stay Close

The Netflix show Stay Close, a gritty soap drama, filmed a few shots at the Silver Jubilee Bridge in Halton. This drama starred the bridge in a few intense scenes and the surrounding area.

5. Mersey Beat

The 2001 show Mersey Beat was filmed around the surrounding area of Widnes and Runcorn, including the frequently used local landmarks such as the Silver Jubilee Bridge and Fiddlers Ferry power Station!

6. Spike Island

The 2012 British comedy film “Spike Island,” directed by Mat Whitecross, prominently features the beautiful surroundings of Halton during its production. The film is centred around the iconic Spike Island, which plays a significant role in the storyline.

7. There’s only one Jimmy Grimble

The film “There’s Only One Jimmy Grimble” was partially filmed in Halton, specifically in Widnes, which provided a fitting backdrop for this heartwarming story. Released in 2000, the film follows the journey of a young boy with big dreams of becoming a football star, capturing the essence of hope and determination. 

8. Millions

The 2004 film “Millions,” directed by Danny Boyle, showcases various locations throughout Widnes, Cheshire. This delightful British comedy-drama effectively utilises the local scenery, bringing a touch of authenticity and charm to this Hollywood production.

9. No Return

The ITV show “No Return” was filmed in parts of Halton and Widnes, showcasing the area’s unique landscapes and local charm. The production team chose these locations for their vibrant community atmosphere and picturesque settings, which added an authentic backdrop to the drama.

10. Protection

The ITV thriller series “Protection” was filmed in Halton, showcasing the area’s diverse settings and captivating scenery. The production team selected locations that highlighted Halton’s local charm and vibrant community, enhancing the narrative’s authenticity. 

11. Hollyoaks

“Hollyoaks,” the popular long-running British soap opera, has been filmed in the picturesque village of Hollyoaks in Halton, near Widnes. Since its launch in 1995, the show has become a staple of British television, renowned for its engaging storylines and diverse characters. The choice of Halton as a filming location has contributed significantly to the show’s authentic atmosphere.

12. Time

Jimmy McGovern’s, Time, is currently filming across Wirral, Liverpool, Halton and Knowsley. The three-part series is a moving and high-stakes portrayal of life inside a women’s prison, told through the lens of three very different inmates who are thrown together to face an unfamiliar world.

13. Rules of the Game

Rules of the Game is a four-part BBC One drama series written by Ruth Fowler. The 2022 show was filmed in Halton, specifically in Widnes, which provided a gritty and authentic setting for the intense drama. This psychological thriller centres around themes of power, abuse, and secrets within a company, making the choice of location all the more important to add to the story’s tension.

14. Sherwood

The BBC Once series “Sherwood” was filmed in Halton, particularly utilising the town of Widnes to create an engaging backdrop for its compelling narrative. This crime drama, inspired by true events, explores themes of community, secrets, and the impact of past actions on present lives, making the choice of location integral to its storytelling. 

15. Should Know Better

The 2024 TV mini-series Will & Ralf Should Know Better was filmed in the surrounding area of Runcorn, including the original site of the famous Archer pub, where the duo first met and is now a Buddhist Temple. The show brings the duo embarrassing and tough challenges to face as middle-aged men that “Should know Better”.

16. Lewis Carroll Centre

The Secret World of Lewis Carroll, a 2015 documentary that explores the life of Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. It was no surprise it was filmed at the Lewis Carroll Centre in Halton. The film explores how the influence of Halton inspired the author’s work on Alice in Wonderland and how the surrounding area is captured in his work.

17. Celebrity Antiques Road Show

The BBC’s Celebrity Antique Road Show recently visited Halton, immersing itself in the vibrant antique scene and uncovering the rich heritage and history of the area. Notable filming locations included the Bridgewater Arts and Craft Centre, showcasing the unique treasures and stories that Halton has to offer!

18. The Irregulars

The Irregulars is a British TV series that aired on Netflix in 2021. This mystery-adventure crime drama used Norton Priory Museum and gardens as a prime filming location for this show. The historic landmark plays a significant role, bringing that historic time of Victorian London.

Have you visited any of these locations featured on the big screen? Why not follow along with our Movie Trail map and take a look at them yourselves. It’s the perfect day out itinerary for the film lovers, tick off the map as you travel around the borough. While you’re there make sure to strike a pose or even replicate an iconic scene from your favourite show and share them with us by tagging @visithalton on socials!