Edinburgh vs Glasgow: Which City Should You Base Your Production In?

Most international productions default to Edinburgh because it's the capital and the one they've heard of. That's usually the right call, but not always.

Location

Edinburgh is on the east coast. Glasgow is on the west, about an hour's drive away. From Edinburgh, you're closer to the Scottish Borders, East Lothian coast, and Perthshire. From Glasgow, you're closer to Loch Lomond, the Trossachs, and the western Highlands.

If your shoot is primarily in the Highlands, Glasgow saves you 30-45 minutes each way on most routes.

Crew

Both cities have strong crew bases. Edinburgh's is slightly smaller but high quality. Glasgow's is larger, supported by a bigger local production industry. Many crew work across both cities.

Equipment

Glasgow has more equipment houses and rental options. Edinburgh's are solid but smaller. Both cities can get next-day delivery from London for specialist kit.

Accommodation

Edinburgh is more expensive, particularly during Festival (August), Hogmanay, and peak periods. Glasgow offers better value year-round. For productions during Edinburgh Festival, consider basing in Glasgow.

The City as a Location

Edinburgh is the more visually striking city. Medieval Old Town, Georgian New Town, volcanic hills. Glasgow offers something different: Victorian industrial architecture, art deco cinemas, brutalist towers, and a grittier urban texture.

Council and Permits

Glasgow Film Office is widely regarded as one of the most production-friendly council offices in the UK. Edinburgh's council process is solid but slower. Road closures require a minimum of 28 days notice.

My Recommendation

Base in Edinburgh if: your shoot includes Edinburgh locations, you're heading east or south, or your client team wants to be in the capital.

Base in Glasgow if: your shoot is primarily in the western Highlands, Loch Lomond, or Argyll; you need more affordable accommodation; or your locations are urban and gritty.

For most international productions doing a mix of city and landscape work, Edinburgh remains the default. But it's worth the conversation.