North East on Screen, From Property Hotspots to Silver Screen Fame
As a North East estate agent deeply rooted in Newcastle, Gateshead and Northumberland, we usually focus on helping people move home, understand the local market and invest wisely. But with the launch of 28 Years Later, filmed right here in our region, we couldn’t resist sharing something a little different. It’s a reminder that the streets, coastlines and castles we know and love are often the unsung stars of cinema. Here’s a look at some iconic productions that have rolled cameras in our backyard.
🎥 28 Years Later (2025)
Danny Boyle’s latest post apocalyptic thriller filmed in and around Newcastle, Gateshead and Northumberland, with scenes captured across Grainger Street, the Quayside and even Holy Island. These aren’t just cinematic set pieces, they’re real communities where people live, work and make memories, the same places we help our clients move to every day.
🎥 Get Carter (1971)
Michael Caine’s iconic crime drama made full use of the North East’s gritty urban backdrop. Scenes were shot across the Tyne bridges, Pink Lane, Grey Street, the old Trinity Square car park in Gateshead and more. Today, those once rough streets are fast growing investment hotspots, full of charm and heritage, something we often highlight to buyers and landlords alike.
🎥 Transformers, The Last Knight (2017)
Yes, really. A Hollywood blockbuster rolled through Grainger Town with falling debris, military action and Lamborghinis on the loose. The contrast between historic architecture and futuristic chaos made a lasting impression and showcased just how photogenic our city centre really is.
🎥 Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023), Macbeth, The BFG
Bamburgh Castle, one of Northumberland’s most jaw dropping landmarks, stood in as Castle Colgan for Harrison Ford’s final outing as Indiana Jones. It’s also starred in Macbeth (2015), The BFG and Elizabeth. The Northumberland coast doesn’t just draw film crews, it draws buyers too, particularly those looking for weekend retreats and high end holiday lets.
🎥 Harry Potter
While much of Hogwarts was filmed at Alnwick Castle and Durham Cathedral, Bamburgh was once considered too. These magical locations continue to attract global attention, and we often speak with homebuyers looking to live near such iconic and atmospheric settings.
🎥 I, Daniel Blake (2016) and School for Seduction (2004)
Ken Loach’s powerful drama filmed in Byker, the West End and Newcastle’s city streets, showing a raw and honest picture of life here. School for Seduction, on the other hand, offered a feel good counterbalance with scenes from Jesmond and central Newcastle. Both shine a light on the everyday character of our region, communities that remain just as vibrant today.
🎥 Purely Belter (2000)
A local cult classic about two Geordie lads on a mission to get Newcastle United season tickets. This film is a time capsule of the region’s character and humour, with familiar streets and landmarks that still feel like home. It’s one of those films that reminds us how much pride we all take in where we’re from.
🎥 Billy Elliot (2000)
Although technically set in County Durham, filming stretched across Newcastle and the surrounding areas. Easington Colliery featured heavily, but the city centre was used too. Like many of the places we work in, it’s a story of resilience and reinvention, two things our property market is no stranger to.
Final Thoughts
From city streets to windswept castles, the North East has always had star quality. Films like 28 Years Later are just the latest reminder that our region is cinematic, full of story and packed with character. We’re proud to live and work here and to help people find their perfect place in it.
If you’re dreaming of a home with real screen presence, get in touch. We’d love to help you find your own piece of the North East’s story.
