Kent Film Office celebrates 20 years as a Leading Force in the UK Film and TV Industries

Established in 2006 by Kent County Council, the KFO provides a free, first‑class film commissioning service designed to generate inward investment, support local businesses, and ensure that filming across the county is lawful, well‑managed, and considerate of residents and communities.

At the heart of its offer is a comprehensive film and location database featuring more than 1,000 listings, promoting Kent’s diverse landscapes and destinations to producers worldwide.

Since its launch, the KFO has generated over £85 million in inward investment through visiting productions, supporting local businesses and creating employment opportunities for Kent‑based crew, actors and service providers. This exposure has also helped drive tourism by showcasing Kent’s unique settings on screen.

A key focus over the past 20 years has been developing the county’s creative industries—strengthening the local skills base and building networks that support both visiting productions and emerging talent. Working with partners such as Creative England, ScreenSkills, Maidstone Studios, Screen South, universities, colleges and media networks including Kent Creative and the BFI Hub, the KFO has secured more than 300 trainee placements for young people living or studying in Kent, giving them vital entry‑level experience in the screen sector.

Kent’s reputation as the Garden of England—with its striking mix of picturesque, historic, and dramatic locations—has made it a firm favourite for film and TV. Some of the fantastic production supported by the KFO include:

Empire of Light, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Bridgerton,
F1: The Movie, My Fault: London, Into the Woods, Wolf Hall,
The Tunnel, Rush, Great Expectations

A full list of productions can be found on the KFO Movie Map.

Gabrielle Lindemann, KCC Kent Film Officer, said: “It has been a real joy to set up and manage the Kent Film Office over the last 20 years. We are honoured that so many productions have entrusted their creative projects to us and by the unwavering support we have received from our local government colleagues, Kent Police and the many local & national agencies.

“But most of all, we are grateful to the overwhelming number of Kent and Medway residents who have opened their homes and businesses and who put up with, sometimes not inconsiderable, disruption when film and TV crews came to town. We hope that we have managed to earn the privilege of running the film office by the economic and promotional benefits as well as the job opportunities filming has brought to the region.”

Paul Webb, KCC Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services said: “The KFO has enabled iconic scenes that don’t just entertain audiences but actively celebrate and promote our wonderful County—showcasing its character, beauty, and versatility to viewers around the world. Every frame filmed here becomes an invitation to visit, to explore, and to invest.

“That impact doesn’t end when the cameras stop rolling. The creation of film and movie trails has turned screen success into lasting visitor experiences—adding a unique cultural attraction that brings fans, families, and film lovers directly into our towns and landscapes.

“Beyond locations and logistics, the Kent Film Office has earned something equally important: respect. It is a trusted and influential voice in industry groups and fora, for the press, and at government level—advocating not just for film, but for our county’s place within the creative economy. Congratulations to the Kent Film Office and everyone who has worked with them to create this resounding success.”

The Kent Film Office works with many other organisations in Kent who help to make our county a “film friendly” location. Here’s what some of them said about working with the KFO:

Hayley Armstrong, Head of Production Services, Creative England said: “As Kent Film Office celebrates an incredible 20 years, we are delighted to congratulate them on this milestone anniversary. As one of the longest-standing and most respected Film Offices in the UK, their leadership and dedication have helped shape the national filming landscape.  From being founding members of Creative England’s Filming in England Partnership to consistently championing local talent, locations, and businesses, Kent Film Office has set the standard for what a proactive, community‑focused Film Office can achieve.  Over the past two decades, their work has brought outstanding productions to the county, generating invaluable exposure, economic benefits, and opportunities for residents and local businesses alike. Congratulations on 20 years of impact and achievement.

Chloe Wilson, Commercial Sales Manager, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, said: “Over the past 20 years, we’ve really enjoyed working with the Kent Film Office on a wide range of productions at The Historic Dockyard Chatham. The team’s knowledge of our historic estate, combined with their incredibly proactive approach, makes them invaluable partners. They field a range of enquiries, always ensuring productions are well-matched to our location and we are supported every step of the way. Their understanding of both the creative and practical needs of filming have played a key role in many successful shoots here, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration for many years to come.”

Jane Milton, Film Lecturer, Canterbury Christchurch University said: “The Kent Film Office has long been an essential part of our film students' experience. For many years we have welcomed them to meet our students, where they’ve generously shared their expertise and offered invaluable insight into filming across Kent’s streets and locations. Their outstanding student portal has benefited many of our students and helped them take their first steps into the industry with job opportunities. They play a vital role in championing and developing future Kent film talent, and we're excited to continue our partnership for many years to come. Happy anniversary!”

Emily Coldwell, Location Manager, said: “As someone whose career was kickstarted by Kent Film Office around 12 years ago, I am eternally grateful for the services KFO provides, not just through facilitating film productions in Kent but also providing a route for people like me to join the industry. Huge congratulations on 20 Years to you all and I hope you have a great celebration.”.

Harvey Edgington, National Trust Senior Filming and Location Manager, said: “The ground breaking tourist campaign partnership built around Other Boleyn Girl was not only successful but showed how the Kent Film Office could bring all the interested parties together to present to the film company. Benefitting the film, the locations and the local tourist economy.”

Clare Winter, Senior Communications Officer, Thanet District Council, said: “Thanet District Council is proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Kent Film Office. This partnership has helped to position Thanet as a go-to destination for world-class filmmakers and photographers.

“The expertise and dedication of the KFO team have been vital in securing an impressive roster of high-profile projects for our district. From the cinematic beauty of Sam Mendes’ Empire of Light to the high-octane energy of Dua Lipa’s O2 campaign, or the drama of an Eastenders Christmas cliff-hanger and iconic moments in award-winning production Killing Eve.

“Kent Film Office provides invaluable professional advice and the ability to navigate and resolve highly complex logistical requests. Their work also creates a tangible impact for our community, which lasts longer than a moment of on-screen fame. These productions contribute to our local economy - supporting our cafés, our tradespeople, and our hotels. The income generated for the council goes back into helping provide essential services for our residents.

“We deeply appreciate the Kent Film Office’s knowledge and support. As they celebrate two decades of success, we look forward to continuing this very productive partnership and bringing even more remarkable stories to life in Thanet.”

Lorna Roberts, Castle Farm Kent said: “At Castle Farm, we have worked with the Kent Film Office over many years and greatly appreciate the role they play in supporting and developing the film and TV industry across the county.

“The KFO team are consistently knowledgeable, supportive, and generous with their time, always happy to share industry insight, practical advice, and introduce potential leads with location scouts and production companies. We look forward to continuing to work together in the years ahead.”

Ed & Tina Wollard, Home Farm Kent said: “We have worked with the Kent Film Office for about 10 years and as a smaller film location we have relied heavily on the expert advice and support given by the team. Whether it be driving film business our way or general day to day support on contracts, and on-site issues, they have been a great help. The Kent Film Office is a massive asset to the filming economy and sector in Kent.”

Here's to the next 20 years!

If you have any questions or recommendations, please contact the team on 03000 422 000 or email filmoffice@kent.gov.uk.