The Tobacco Factory Bristol
Bristol · BS3
Amenities
Summary
A 1920s tobacco processing factory in Bedminster — industrial brick floors, cast-iron columns, and natural top-lighting from north-facing industrial windows; now a theatre and cafe.
About this location
The Tobacco Factory in Bedminster, Bristol, is a former WD and HO Wills tobacco factory completed in 1929. The main building is a large-span industrial structure: brick-built with an open-plan ground floor, cast-iron columns supporting the floors above, and extensive north-facing industrial windows that give diffuse, consistent natural light. It has been converted to an arts venue housing a theatre, cafe, and market space, but the industrial character of the original building is largely retained and visible.
The building is a significant arts venue in south Bristol, with the theatre company Tobacco Factory Theatres in residence. The event and commercial hire programme covers the various spaces: the main theatre (200 capacity, flexible staging), the market hall (open-plan, 500sqm), the cafe, and associated rooms. For productions, the industrial ground floor spaces give a Bristol-specific factory character useful for contemporary drama or period industrial sequences.
Bristol has a well-developed film and TV production culture, with BBC Studios, Aardman, and various independent production companies based in the city. Bristol City Council has a film office. The Tobacco Factory is in Bedminster — south of the city centre across the Avon, served by frequent buses. The surrounding Bedminster streets have a working-class south Bristol character distinct from the harbourside and Clifton.
Access notes
- Parking
- No on-site parking confirmed. Expect to use nearby public car parks or a council parking suspension.
- Loading access
- Loading access available — dedicated entry for kit and set dressing.
- Public transit
- Bristol has mainline rail and regional bus connections. Check the nearest station and allow for equipment on-foot from transit.
Ask us about this location
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On the map
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FAQ
- Do I need a permit to film at The Tobacco Factory Bristol?
- No council permit is usually needed for filming at The Tobacco Factory Bristol itself, but you'll still need the owner's written permission, and any spill-over onto public highway or pavement may require a council permit.
- Is parking available at The Tobacco Factory Bristol?
- Parking isn't listed as a confirmed amenity for The Tobacco Factory Bristol. Check with the site for crew parking, loading, and unit-base options — in Bristol you'll often rely on nearby public car parks or a council parking suspension.
- How much does it cost to film at The Tobacco Factory Bristol?
- The Tobacco Factory Bristol sits in the ££ band. Typical UK film-location day rates range from under £200 for simple interior shoots to well over £1,000 for period properties and landmark venues. Confirm with the venue directly.
- What crew size is suitable for The Tobacco Factory Bristol?
- The Tobacco Factory Bristol can accommodate a large crew of 15+ including feature-film unit requirements, trucks, and extras.
- Has anything been filmed at The Tobacco Factory Bristol before?
- The Tobacco Factory Bristol appears on Filmshoot's UK location index because it has a documented track record or strong characteristics for film and photography. Specific production credits aren't displayed unless publicly confirmed by the venue — ask the venue directly or check ScreenSkills and IMDb Locations for verified credits.
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