The BBC’s global hit drama chose the West Midlands for its authentic industrial heritage and versatile locations. From the Black Country Living Museum to Birmingham’s historic streets, the series proved how the region can double as a distinctive cinematic world and helped cement its reputation as the home of original storytelling.
Created by Birmingham-born writer and director Steven Knight, the BBC’s award-winning drama Peaky Blinders became a global phenomenon, and a showcase for the West Midlands’ cinematic character.
Why West Midlands
The production turned to the region for its authentic industrial heritage and versatile locations. The Black Country Living Museum doubled as 1920s Birmingham, providing gritty locations and working-class backdrops. Across the series, locations in Birmingham and beyond brought scale and realism that grounded the story in its true home.
Production Support
Local crews, suppliers, and location managers helped deliver the series on the ground, with regional expertise ensuring smooth logistics and cost-effective solutions. Filming here demonstrated how the West Midlands can combine world-class storytelling with accessible, production-friendly conditions.
Impact
Peaky Blinders didn’t just build a global fanbase — it put Birmingham and the West Midlands firmly on the international production map. The series inspired screen tourism, contributed to civic pride, and helped drive investment in new studios and talent pipelines. Above all, it proved the region’s ability to host productions of global scale while staying true to its storytelling roots.
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