How Thanet has transformed into one of the UK’s top film locations

Filming production has taken over the iconic Dreamland Vintage Adventure Park in Margate to film Director Sam Mendes’ feature piece ‘Empire of Light’, which stars household British acting names, Olivia Coleman and Colin Firth. Mendes directed the hard-hitting war film 1917 and the two most recent bond films, Skyfall and Spectre.

Margate has been totally transformed into a winter wonderland for the film, creating snowy streets along with an 80s aesthetic. The high-budget production is expected to hit the big screens worldwide by 2023.

Over the last year, scenes have also been shot across Thanet for the Bafta award-winning hit UK BBC TV show Killing Eve, a spy thriller that stars high profile actress Jodie Comer and two times Golden Globes award winner Sandra Oh.

Local attractions and businesses where filming took place include Dreamland, the Lido Complex, The Nayland Rock Hotel and the Market Square, Margate Main Sands, Margate Harbour Arm, Sand’s Café, and Newgate Lower Promenade. Killing Eve is currently on TV for its fourth and final series, which will include multiple scenes filmed across the Thanet coast.

Other TV shows filmed in Thanet in recent years has been a remake of the British cult classic Darling Buds of May, now called ‘The Larkins’, starring much loved British TV personality Bradley Walsh, and popular Sky One show ‘Breeders’ starring Sherlock star Martin Freeman and Harry Potter actress Daisy Haggard.

Apple TV was even spotted in Ramsgate last year, filming for French and English speaking original feature film ‘Liaison’, directed by Emmy award winner Stephen Hopkins and starring Westworld actor Vincent Cassel and Casino Royale actress Eva Green.

Many Thanet residents will have also noticed notable Isle locations in Thanet appear in the latest TSB TV advert, featuring famous US actor David Schwimmer, who was spotted filming at North Foreland Golf Club and across Margate for the promotion last year.

This has coincided with Thanet’s rise as a prominent UK location for relocators from London. Ramsgate was named the number one coastal relocation spot for Londoners, with neighbouring seaside towns Broadstairs and Margate finishing second and third. The report explains Ramsgate's high score through the town's culture and heritage, alongside its short travel time to London, value for money, price growth (short/medium/long term), cleanliness and beaches and education.

Recent regeneration projects happening across the town also aim to further contribute to Ramsgate's ongoing history as a UK seaside favourite, including the new Royal Sands Ramsgate development, steps away from Ramsgate Main Sands, providing residents stunning sea views and luxury coastal living.

To learn more, visit the Royal Sands Ramsgate website here.

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