Where was Peaky Blinders filmed? Top filming locations you can visit IRL

Alright, listen up. You’re about to step into the world of Peaky Blinders. That means no second-guessing, no hesitation. Just sharp suits, sharper minds, and a tour through the real-life places where the Shelbys made their mark.

Truth is, most of the show wasn’t actually filmed in Birmingham. The production team scouted historic sites all over England to recreate the gritty streets, grand halls, and dodgy dockyards of 1920s Britain, and man, they did a good job. So, want to walk the footsteps of the Shelbys? Then keep your wits about you and follow me to see the top Peaky Blinders filming locations.

Where was Peaky Blinders mostly filmed?

While the show is set in Birmingham, it was mostly filmed in Liverpool, Manchester, and a bunch of historic locations across England.

1. Powis Street, Liverpool

The opening scene of the entire show – where we’re first introduced to our complex lead, Tommy Shelby – was filmed on this street in Liverpool, standing in for Watery Lane, the heart of the Shelbys’ operations. While you’re in the area, you can also check out a different slice of pop culture history: the former home of Ringo Starr of The Beatles, located at 10 Admiral Grove.

2. Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

Welcome to the Black Country Living Museum – the Peaky Blinders’ HQ. This open-air museum stood in for the backstreets of Birmingham, including Watery Lane, where the Shelby family made their empire. It’s just 8 miles away from Birmingham and the spot if you want to pretend to be Cillian Murphy AKA Tommy Shelby, while also pretending to plot world domination.

3. Stanley Dock, Liverpool

Peaky Blinders had some serious dockside drama, and Stanley Dock in Liverpool was the perfect backdrop for it. This is where Charlie Strong’s yard comes to life, and it’s as gritty as you’d hope. Oh, and bonus points if you visit this Peaky Blinders filming location on a moody, overcast day. It really gives you the full Shelby effect.

4. Formby Beach, Merseyside

Who said gangsters don’t need a seaside escape? They most definitely do. Formby Beach (right off the Liverpool coast) provided the windswept, dramatic backdrop for some of Tommy Shelby’s most brooding moments. So if you’re ever craving a contemplative stroll near the home of the Beatles, you know where to go. And yes, bring the three-piece suit if you’re fully committed. 

5. Keighly & Worth Valley Railway, Yorkshire

Trains were basically a supporting character in Peaky Blinders, and the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway played a key role. If you want to relive some of the show’s most dramatic confrontations (ahem, Billy Kimber), hop on a steam train here and soak up the vintage vibes.

6. Camden, London

If you’re a fan of Alfie Solomons (Tom Hardy) and his cryptic, occasionally unhinged monologues, Camden’s canal and Stables Market in London is where you need to go.This was used as the location of Alfie’s bakery (and a front for his criminal empire), and honestly, it still has a bit of that wonderfully chaotic energy. Unfortunately for all of us, he doesn’t just pop out and start philosophising about business deals and betrayal when you’re at this Peaky Blinders filming location. 

7. Port Sunlight, Wirral

Don’t let the name fool you. Port Sunlight is where the Shelby Company Ltd set up its headquarters. It’s the spot where the big business deals took place, but also where the inevitable betrayals did too. Aside from that, this beautiful place is also a beautiful model village with charming cottages, art galleries and cosy pubs. 

8. Arley Hall, Cheshire

Tommy’s Shelby mansion? Iconic. So if you’re thinking of upgrading your living situation, Arley Hall in Cheshire is the real-life location of the legendary gangster’s mansion. This is where he schemed, smoked, and generally looked stressed. But lucky for you, unlike Tommy, you probably won’t have to fend off rival gangs when you visit. Phew! 

9. Rochdale Town Hall, Greater Manchester

When Peaky Blinders needed a grand, dramatic setting for government meetings and political betrayals, they turned to Rochdale Town Hall. Its stunning Gothic Revival architecture was the perfect backdrop for the 1920s power struggles. (Oh, and if you’re a fan of high ceilings and serious-looking chandeliers – this one’s for you).

10. The Garrison Pub, Liverpool

Yep, I’m talking about THE Peaky Blinders pub. Truth is, the Garrison Tavern was mainly a set recreation (sob). But if you wanna grab a cheeky pint IRL, then the Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool and Castlefield, a not-so hidden gem in Manchester is where you should go. While Birmingham’s actual Garrison Tavern didn’t make the cut for the Peaky Blinders filming locations, it’s still worth checking out for the vibes.

11. St. George’s Hall, Liverpool

Speaking of grand settings, St George’s Hall in Liverpool also made multiple appearances in Peaky Blinders. This iconic building was used for various courtroom and political scenes, where Tommy Shelby flexed his influence among the upper classes (while still looking effortlessly cool, of course).

Where is Tommy Shelby’s mansion?

Tommy Shelby’s grand home is actually Arley Hall in Cheshire. And yes, you can visit it!

Is Tommy Shelby Irish or British?

Tommy Shelby is British but has Irish heritage – which plays a big role in the show’s storyline.

What pub is Peaky Blinders filmed in?

The show’s iconic Garrison Tavern was mostly a set, but real pubs in Manchester and Liverpool were used for certain scenes.

Wanna visit these Peaky Blinders filming locations IRL?

Now that you know where to find the real-life streets, docks, and hideouts of the Peaky Blinders, what’s next? Well, you could sit around brooding like Tommy Shelby, or you could get out there and see them for yourself. Check out our England trips for more.