Listed and historical buildings for hire
With architecture that spans centuries of rich history, the UK has no shortage of carefully conserved listed and historical buildings. Many of these are available for hire including Medieval castles, Georgian mansions, Tudor houses and Gothic cathedrals. These historic venues make dramatic backdrops for creative projects, whether you’re filming a period piece, a dramatic music video or an important interview. Browse Tutti’s range of impressive historical buildings available for hire to find the ideal venue for your next video shoot.
What is a listed building?
In the UK, the term listed building refers to a site that has been included on a statutory list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest. According to the National Heritage List there are 400,000 listed sites in England alone. These lists are maintained by the government, and buildings are classified into different grades based on their significance.
The two primary grades for listed buildings are Grade I and Grade II, Grade I being the highest grade for buildings of exceptional interest. These buildings or sites are considered to be of outstanding national architectural or historic importance. You’ll find they have either unique features, outstanding craftsmanship, or connections to important historical events or figures.
Grade II is the most common grade for historical buildings and while not as exceptional as Grade I, Grade II listed buildings are important structures that contribute to local or regional cultural heritage. They may have distinctive architectural features, represent a particular period or style, or have historical associations.
Types of Grade I and Grade II listed buildings for hire in the UK
There is a huge variety of historic buildings available for hire in the UK, each boasting unique characteristics and historical significance. Here are some common types of historic buildings that are often used for film shoots.
Castles and Palaces
The UK is mostly famously known for its royal residences such as Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace, but it’s also home to numerous castles ranging from Roman fortresses to more elaborate Renaissance palaces. These locations provide grand and dramatic backdrops for your historical and fantasy-themed productions.
Manor houses are large country houses with land, known for their grand architecture and beautiful estates. They often feature period interiors, gardens, and extensive grounds, making them suitable for a variety of settings. Similar to manor houses, stately homes are large, impressive residences that were occupied by aristocratic families. These homes can span various architectural styles, including Tudor, Jacobean, Georgian, and Victorian.
Abbeys and Monasteries
Abbeys and monasteries, many of which are in ruins or partially restored, provide atmospheric settings for historical dramas and period pieces.
Historic churches and cathedrals like St James’ Church in Paddington and Holy Trinity Church in Hertfordshire showcase stunning architecture for scenes requiring religious settings. Some features may include stained glass windows, pulpit, frescoes or a bell tower.
Industrial Heritage Buildings
Buildings associated with the industrial revolution, such as mills, factories, and warehouses, can be ideal for productions set in the 18th or 19th centuries. There are plenty of historic warehouse spaces in London such as Ivory House in St Katharines Dock available for hire.
Lighthouses
Coastal areas around the UK boast over 100 listed lighthouses ranging from Roman pharos and medieval beacons to the classic red and white striped style.
Theatres
Auditoriums and Opera theatres like Britten Theatre in Westminster and in London provide distinctive settings for productions related to the performing arts. Some may have ornate interiors or architectural features that are specific to a certain time period.
Historic Universities and Colleges
Some universities and colleges in the UK reside in historic buildings with beautiful architecture and grounds. These locations are perfect for academic or period-specific scenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a listed or historical building?
The fee for hiring a historical building in the UK can vary greatly. It depends on factors like the size of the venue, its location, how long you need it for, and any extra services you might require. Spaces on Tutti often show hourly, half-daily or daily rates, otherwise you can find out the rate by starting an inquiry (don’t worry you won’t be charged yet).
What amenities are typically included when hiring a historical building in the UK?
Typically, renting a historical building will include bathrooms, spaces that can be used as green rooms or dressing areas, electricity with power outlets, heating or cooling systems for comfort, and period furniture and decor. Depending on the type of building, there may be kitchen facilities, audio-visual equipment, and Wi-Fi available.
Can I make alterations or set additions to the historical building for my shoot?
If you are considering bringing in additional sets or making alterations to the existing space, make sure to discuss these with the hosts prior to booking as some historical buildings may have restrictions to preserve their integrity.
Will there be on-site parking available?
This will depend on the size and location of the venue, but if you are unsure you can inquire with the host about parking options. If parking at the venue is limited, consider letting your team know about alternative transport options or nearby parking facilities.
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