Filming

Luton welcomes film companies to work and film in the town. Many areas look and feel similar to parts of London in both architecture and community, and the town is only around 30 minutes away with strong transport links. Costs are also very competitive compared to filming in the capital.

Luton has a long history of supporting creative industries, dating back to the 17th century hat making trade. Today the town has a diverse creative economy, supported by specialist workspaces and a leading university. Luton offers:

• a wide and established supply chain
• access to a large customer base
• strong infrastructure
• a skilled workforce

The town is also home to one of Europe’s biggest one‑day carnivals and the UK Centre for Carnival Arts.

Apply to film in Luton

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Filming in parks and open spaces

Luton has over 140 parks and green spaces. To film in larger parks or recreation grounds, you must provide a plan showing the exact area you wish to use.

Find a park and open space

Filming at London Luton Airport

Information about filming and photography at the airport is available on the London Luton Airport website.

Filming rates for Luton Council locations

Rates apply when applications are submitted more than five working days before filming.

Small‑scale productions (fewer than 10 crew)

The rates are:

• up to one hour: £227.50
• half day (1–5 hours): £525
• full day: £900

Large scale productions (10 crew or more)

The rates are:

• half day (1–5 hours): £1,565
• full day: £2,600

Discounts

The rates are:

• student filming (with evidence): 100%
• charities (with evidence): 100%
• amateur filming (with evidence): 80%
• low‑budget films under £10,000 (with evidence): 50%

Additional fees

The rates are:

• set‑up or strike days: 50% of full day rate
• drone filming application: £250
• filming in parks: £50
• officer advice: £100 per hour (M‑graded officers)
• VAT applies to all charges

You must provide public liability insurance of at least £10 million and a risk assessment for all filming locations.

Road closures, traffic management and other direct costs are not included in the above fees.

Applications submitted with fewer than five working days’ notice incur a 10% surcharge.

Application timeframes

Applications must be submitted within the following timescales:

• major or large scale productions: 3 months
• medium scale productions: 2 months
• small scale productions: 5 to 10 days

Applications submitted with less notice may not be processed in time and will incur a 10% surcharge. If you need a quicker decision and to request a call back from the filming team.

Email: filming@luton.gov.uk

Register locations, facilities and crew

Your property may be suitable for filming, whether it is a home, office or commercial space. Properties based in England outside London can be registered for free on Creative England’s database.

Telephone: 020 8324 2311

Local facilities and crew can also register for free so productions can contact you directly.