List your property as a filming location

Have you ever imagined your home or business appearing on the big screen? From historic farms and castles to working docks, Wales offers a diverse range of filming locations. But how do crews choose these spots, and what’s the process like for property owners?

We spoke to location manager Paul ‘Bach’ Davies and property owners across Wales whose homes and businesses have been featured in TV series. Here’s what you need to know about turning your property into a filming location.

Location managers are constantly on the road, searching for properties that match a production’s vision. They might need something specific, like a row of six identical terraced houses or a farm on a hill with a view. If your property fits the brief, you could receive a visit.

Alternatively, if you’ve registered your property with the Wales Screen location database a production team might contact you directly. Either way, once your property is chosen, the experience is similar.   

The Wales Screen team says, ‘Locations are at the heart of every great film and TV show – they set the scene, create atmosphere, and bring stories to life. We’re always looking for incredible places to showcase to location managers and producers.

‘By registering your property on our database, we can put it forward for the many filming enquiries we receive, helping to bring even more productions to Wales and show off what makes this country so special.’

Once selected, a location manager will arrange a few visits, known as 'recces', to walk through the interior and exterior of your property. During these visits, you can ask questions and discuss any areas you want to keep off-limits.

 For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out our Wales Screen location guidance

Now that we’ve briefly covered how properties are chosen, here’s a glimpse into what the experience is like – for both location managers and property owners.

Y Plas, Llangattock

Before being used in Out There, Y Plas had never appeared on TV before. Nestled in rural Mid Wales, it provided the perfect backdrop for a drama about a farmer battling county lines gangs.

Owner Graeme Pearson says, ‘We became involved with Out There when Paul walked into the garden and discussed the project with me. He asked if we would be interested in being a part of it. I felt it would be a fascinating experience for our family, seeing some of the complexities of how TV shows are made, meeting some interesting people, and generally enjoying something new.

‘When the team came, it was great to see all the different professions in action, operating in harmony. They were all friendly and happy to explain what was happening and what their piece of the puzzle was. It was an enjoyable experience.’

The Whitehall Pub in Llandovery

The Whitehall Pub is no stranger to Welsh drama. Previously featured in Y Golau / The Light in the Hall, it was recently used as a filming location for ITV’s Out There. A 17th-century property in the centre of Llandovery, the pub’s traditional features make it an interesting filming location.  

Owner Anne Einnon says, ‘It all started when Paul approached us. He had a vision in his mind and came to see if our property was what he wanted.

‘From the town’s point of view, I think it creates quite a buzz and a lot of revenue, particularly with hospitality. We often get people visit once a show has aired. They like to trace the steps of the locations.’

Y Dderw Farm, Llyswen

Y Dderw Farm in Llyswen also played a key role in Out There. The crew repainted the property from bright pink to grey, before restoring it to its original colour after filming.

Owner Gina Murray says, ‘Our experience was great. We loved having the whole team here. Everyone was professional and fun, and it was interesting to watch them work.

‘All the staff were excellent and friendly. Even though we were here and watching, we were always made to feel welcome.

‘If anyone is thinking about offering their home for TV location work, I would recommend it. The key is to go with the flow. We said yes to any suggestions, as we were so interested in what they were doing. The company who came here were very good and once filming was completed each day, everything was spotless.’

ABP docks across South Wales

It’s not just homes and businesses that get scouted – unique locations like Wales’s docks also provide stunning backdrops for film and TV.                                                              

Paul ‘Bach’ Davies, location manager, says, ‘Wales is lucky to have a variety of locations, from mountains to coastline. Having a port or dock as an option is a huge bonus. In South Wales alone, we have Swansea, Port Talbot, Cardiff, Barry and Newport.

‘Over the years, each one has played a role in one way or another, from Newport docks in Gavin and Stacey to the wonderful Puckey House (the old Harbourmaster’s office) in Port Talbot for Pembrokeshire Murders.

‘Recently, I used Cardiff Docks for Out There, which was a key part of the story. ABP, who manage the ports in South Wales, are a great company to work with because they understand the production needs. Being able to access a port is so special as it gives any production the sense of scale.’

Interested in using your property as a filming location in Wales? Register with Wales Screen location database.