Request to film in Guildford

Guildford and the surrounding area provide a stunning location for film makers and photographers.  We welcome individuals and crews from around the world for dramas, television series, films, and photo shoots. 

Filming / Photography on Guildford Borough Council (GBC) land

Filming / photography on our land requires permission from us.  This includes car parks, parks and countryside spaces, and business parks owned or managed by us. By applying you agree to our terms and conditions (PDF, 118 KB).

Request to film on GBC land (opens new window) 

Charges are applicable, depending on requirements. The fees (opens new window) are based on the nature, size, scale, and duration of the filming / photography event. Please allow at least a month's notice for permission.

Hire a Film Unit Base

A Film Unit Base is where the makeup, costume, and cast trailers are located, as well as crew parking and catering. If you are looking for a unit base for your filming activities, email events@guildford.gov.uk

Once this has been discussed with us, please complete our Film Unit Base Application Form (Word doc, 48 KB) and send to events@guildford.gov.uk.

Filming in GBC buildings

Requests to film in one of our buildings, for example at the Guildhall, the Castle Keep, etc, should be made by emailing guildhall@guildford.gov.uk.  Different fee rates apply.

Filming on Guildford highways

Requests to film on Guildford highways, for example the High Street must be made to Surrey County Council (SCC). SCC rates apply.

Request to film on Guildford highways (opens new window). 

Filming on private land

If you're planning to film on a private land, you'll need permission from the landowner. 

Contact the landowners directly for permission to use other locations such as:

• National Trust properties
• River Wey tow paths
• Albury Estate
• Newlands Corner
• The University of Surrey
• Loseley House
• Surrey Sports Park
• Surrey Research Park

Further information and guidance

For more advice on organising a safe and successful event, read our event guidance notes (PDF, 491 KB) or visit the HSE website.

Charges are applicable and based on the nature, size, scale, and duration of the filming / photography event.

The following charges will be made when using our land:

• administration fees cover all filming included at one location in a single permit application.  Multiple locations may be submitted on a single application; however, each location may require an individual permit.  Additional permit applications or amendments may incur further charges

This includes using car parks, parks and countryside spaces, and business parks owned or managed by us. 

Student fees: local refers to students whose place of study is based within Surrey.

Prices are subject to VAT (20%) and are subject to increase on 1^st April each year. 

GBC officer time: Hourly rate £75.  Chargeable when out of hours access to sites is required.