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Home of filmmaking since 1914, we are proud to have hosted an incredible creative legacy: from EastEnders’ 40-year run on site to countless TV and film productions.
Fairbanks Studios’ new vision is designed to meet modern production demands, featuring five state-of-the-art soundstages and comprehensive support facilities. Set in Elstree, the heart of the UK film and television industry.
We are proud to have hosted an incredible creative legacy: from EastEnders’ 40-year run on site to countless BBC productions, Fairbanks is a place with a vibrant, lived-in history.
Fairbanks Studios is a new vision for the historic Elstree site, led by BNP Paribas Asset Management and Oxygen Studios. We’re committed to creating long-term, community-focused studio infrastructure that supports creativity, careers, and local growth, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Designed to target BREEAM Outstanding and Albert Studio Sustainability Standard Outstanding.
Neptune Studios opens in 1914, becoming one of the UK’s earliest film sites.
Early British films produced; company folds in 1917 but operations continue.
Studios revived for silent films under Ideal Film Company.
Gate Studios opens nearby, growing Elstree’s film cluster.
Major sound stages built; the Golden Age begins.
Hit films like Everything Is Rhythm (1936).
Bought by British National Film Company in 1939.
Studios requisitioned for WWII government use.
Film production resumes post-war.
Douglas Fairbanks Jr. relaunches as National Studios.
Produces Douglas Fairbanks Presents; later becomes ATV Elstree.
Top of the Pops begins filming in 1964.
Elstree and Borehamwood becomes a major hub for Hollywood blockbusters, with films such as Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Superman.
BBC purchases the site in 1984 and shifts focus to TV.
EastEnders launches in 1985 and becomes the flagship show.
BBC Elstree expands output with dramas like Holby City.
Establishes itself as a core BBC production base.
Major upgrades in 2002 and a EastEnders set rebuild (2016–22).
Nearby studios host The Crown and The King’s Speech.
Remains a major UK production centre.
BNP Paribas Asset Managers agrees to acquire the site in 2023.
Planning consent for redevelopment of studios granted in 2025.
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