Halton Borough

Lying the centre of the Northwest’s motorway network, Halton’s proximity to three UK cities (Liverpool, Manchester and Chester) means that major facilities are never less than half an hours drive away. Within the regions boundaries is a unique mixture of open space, thatched cottages, modern waterside apartments, council estates, extensive heathland, rugged quarry locations and a lighthouse.


The borough is a hotspot for filming activity and recent reports have revealed that the local economy has gained more than £10 million through television and film production.

The cult BBC sitcom ‘Two pints of lager and a packet of crisps’, starring Ralph Little (see image right) has shot for a number of years here, using Runcorn and Widnes as prime locations. These towns were also heavily featured in BBC’s police drama, ‘Merseybeat’ whilst BBC3 comedy, ‘Drop Dead Gorgeous’ (Hat Trick Productions) also filmed in Runcorn at Weston Point.

Movies shot in the area include ‘Millions’, directed by Danny Boyle (‘Trainspotting’ and ‘28 Days Later’), which was filmed on site for six weeks and ‘51st State’ starring Samuel L Jackson used Halton for some key dual carriageway driving scenes.

Halton has always been a hotbed for creativity and is home to Daresbury; the birthplace to one of history’s best-loved children’s authors, Lewis Carroll, (‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ and ‘Through the looking glass’). The Church in Daresbury is a fine example of the many historic buildings in the area; it is used regularly as a film venue and is this year being used twice over the Christmas period for televised services.

Explaining how Halton rivals other UK locations, Halton’s Tourism Manager, Iain Bisset, said:

“(Halton has) diversity and the ability to make things happen. It’s also a place where anonymity can happen. Despite being used regularly for serial dramas, there are still lots of places that can ‘double-up’ as other locations. We have a vast knowledge of the area and its locations, with a long association with film and TV companies meaning that anything that can be done to make it easy; will be done.”

Emma Welland, North West Vision’s Cheshire and Warrington Film Liason Officer added:

“The area is a very film-friendly location and the welcoming attitude explains why so many productions have already shot here. I hope this activity continues because it is important not only for the economy but also in representing the wonderful places that we have right on our doorstep.”

Contact the Cheshire and Warrington Film Office:
Emma Welland
Cheshire and Warrington’s Film Liaison Officer
01925 715 108

Halton Council:
Iain Bisset
Halton Councils Promotions and Tourism Manager 01928 516116

http://www2.halton.gov.uk

Location of the Month - HaltonTwo pints of lager and a packet of Crisps - BBC Drop Dead Gorgeous - Hat Trick Productions for BBC