🎬 Where Was Project Hail Mary Filmed? Complete England, UK Location Guide backdrop
Science FictionAdventureDrama

🎬 Where Was Project Hail Mary Filmed? Complete England, UK Location Guide

2026
Phil Lord, Christopher Miller
Added January 15, 2024
5 Locations

Journey to Earth's past to discover the real-world UK locations behind this anticipated sci-fi epic. Explore before you travel!

About 🎬 Where Was Project Hail Mary Filmed? Complete England, UK Location Guide

🎬 Where Was Project Hail Mary Filmed? Complete England, UK Location Guide

Get ready, space cadets and film buffs! The highly anticipated adaptation of Andy Weir's "Project Hail Mary" is set to transport audiences on an interstellar adventure, but did you know parts of its Earth-bound story unfold right here in the UK? This film promises to be a cosmic thrill ride, blending hard science fiction with captivating human drama.

While much of the book's narrative is set light-years away on a desperate mission to save humanity, the cinematic version anchors protagonist Ryland Grace's journey with crucial flashbacks and preparatory scenes on our home planet. You might be surprised to learn that these vital sequences found their real-world counterparts in some of England's most iconic cities.

Join us as we explore the surprising terrestrial filming locations that bring the initial chapters of "Project Hail Mary" to life. From bustling Manchester streets to historic London landmarks, these spots blend cinematic magic with fascinating history, offering a unique travel experience for any fan.

Ready to trace the footsteps of Ryland Grace before he left Earth? Let's dive into the UK locations that helped build the world of "Project Hail Mary"! 🚀

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🗺️ Major Filming Locations

🎬 Princess Street, Manchester - The Urban Canvas 🌆

Scenic view of Princess Street, Manchester showing the book cover for Project Hail Mary 🏛️ The Location

Princess Street is one of Manchester's most prominent thoroughfares, renowned for its grand Victorian architecture and historical significance. It runs through the heart of the city, connecting various districts and showcasing a rich blend of old and new buildings. The street pulses with urban energy, making it a dynamic backdrop for any scene.

🎥 In the Film

While direct scene details remain under wraps, it's likely Princess Street will serve as a backdrop for Ryland Grace's past life or the chaotic, desperate atmosphere on Earth. Imagine government officials rushing to meetings or scientists grappling with humanity's impending doom, all set against this iconic city street. Its busy nature could underscore the urgency of the Ailment.

📍 Visitor Info
  • 📍 Address: Princess Street, Manchester, M1 4EJ, UK
  • 🕒 Hours: Always accessible as a public street
  • 💰 Admission: Free
  • 🌐 Website: N/A (General Manchester info: visitmanchester.com)
  • 💡 Pro Tip: Explore the side streets off Princess Street to discover hidden gems like independent cafes and boutique shops. 🎬 Fun Fact: The area around Princess Street was once central to Manchester's booming textile industry in the 19th century, reflecting the city's rich industrial heritage.

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    🎬 Northern Quarter, Manchester - Gritty & Creative Charm ✨

    Stunning architecture of Northern Quarter, Manchester featuring a vibrant street scene with shops and graffiti 🏛️ The Location

    Manchester's Northern Quarter is a bohemian hub known for its independent fashion stores, vintage shops, record stores, and vibrant street art. Its industrial architecture, complete with red-brick warehouses and cobbled streets, gives it a distinct, edgy character. It's a favorite spot for filmmakers seeking an authentic urban aesthetic.

    🎥 In the Film

    The unique, slightly gritty charm of the Northern Quarter could be perfect for capturing more intimate or reflective moments from Grace's past. Perhaps a scene depicting his everyday life before the extraordinary circumstances, or a clandestine meeting in a dimly lit alleyway. The area's diverse textures offer a compelling visual narrative.

    📍 Visitor Info
  • 📍 Address: Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1AZ, UK (approximate)
  • 🕒 Hours: Shops generally 10 AM - 6 PM; restaurants/bars later
  • 💰 Admission: Free to wander
  • 🌐 Website: N/A (General Manchester info: northernquartermanchester.com)
  • 💡 Pro Tip: Look up! The Northern Quarter is famous for its hidden street art and murals, often changing and evolving. It's an Instagrammer's dream! 🎬 Fun Fact: Many scenes from the TV series "Shameless" and "Fresh Meat" were filmed in and around the Northern Quarter, highlighting its adaptable urban look.

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    🎬 The Cunard Building, Pier Head, Liverpool - Grandeur by the Mersey ⚓

    Beautiful view of The Cunard Building showcasing its grand neoclassical facade by the water 🏛️ The Location

    Part of Liverpool's iconic "Three Graces" at Pier Head, The Cunard Building is a magnificent Grade II* listed building with a grand neoclassical facade. Built for the Cunard Line shipping company, it stands as a testament to Liverpool's maritime history and architectural prowess. Its imposing presence makes it a truly cinematic location.

    🎥 In the Film

    This majestic building could easily double as a critical government facility, an international research institute, or even a command center for the "Project Hail Mary" mission. Its historical gravitas would lend a sense of urgency and importance to any scene involving global decision-making or scientific breakthroughs. Imagine key scientific minds gathering here.

    📍 Visitor Info
  • 📍 Address: The Cunard Building, Cunard Building, Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1DG, UK
  • 🕒 Hours: Varies for specific tenants; exterior always viewable
  • 💰 Admission: Free (exterior access)
  • 🌐 Website: liverpool.gov.uk/the-cunard-building/
  • 💡 Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pier Head, taking in the Liver Building and Port of Liverpool Building, which complete the "Three Graces." 🎬 Fun Fact: The Cunard Building played a significant role in coordinating transatlantic voyages during the golden age of ocean liners, including some of the most famous ships in history.

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    🎬 Trafalgar Square, London - The Heart of the City 🦁

    Impressive facade of Trafalgar Square displaying Nelson's Column and surrounding architecture 🏛️ The Location

    Trafalgar Square is arguably London's most famous public square, dominated by Nelson's Column and guarded by iconic lion statues. It's a central gathering place for protests, celebrations, and tourists, surrounded by major cultural institutions like the National Gallery. Its grandeur and bustling energy make it instantly recognizable.

    🎥 In the Film

    Given its status as a public forum, Trafalgar Square could feature in scenes depicting global unrest, public announcements, or the general public's reaction to the existential threat posed by the Ailment. A wide shot with panic or solidarity unfolding amidst iconic landmarks would be incredibly powerful.

    📍 Visitor Info
  • 📍 Address: Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN, UK
  • 🕒 Hours: Always open
  • 💰 Admission: Free
  • 🌐 Website: london.gov.uk/about-london/london-square-gardens/trafalgar-square
  • 💡 Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best photo opportunities before the crowds gather. And don't forget to interact with the famous bronze lions! 🎬 Fun Fact: The square is often a backdrop for major film productions, but it's also famous for its resident pigeon population – though rules against feeding them have dramatically reduced their numbers.

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    🎬 Battersea Power Station, London - Industrial Icon Reimagined 🏭

    Authentic street scene of Battersea Power Station capturing its iconic four chimneys and surrounding development 🏛️ The Location

    Battersea Power Station is a decommissioned coal-fired power station, now a striking Grade II* listed building and a major London landmark. With its distinctive four chimneys, it's a symbol of industrial heritage. Recent redevelopment has transformed it into a vibrant residential, retail, and leisure destination.

    🎥 In the Film

    The imposing, almost sci-fi-esque architecture of Battersea Power Station could serve as a unique setting for key scientific installations, a hidden research lab, or a clandestine meeting point related to the Ailment. Its blend of historic industrialism and modern refurbishment offers a compelling visual contrast for the film's tone. Perhaps some advanced tech is hidden here.

    📍 Visitor Info
  • 📍 Address: Battersea Power Station, Circus West Village, London, SW8 4NN, UK
  • 🕒 Hours: Shops/restaurants typically 10 AM - 9 PM; Go Ape experience varies
  • 💰 Admission: Free to explore the grounds and common areas. Sky Lift requires ticket purchase.
  • 🌐 Website: batterseapowerstation.co.uk
  • 💡 Pro Tip: Brave the 'Lift 109' experience for a panoramic glass elevator ride up one of the iconic chimneys, offering incredible views of central London. 🎬 Fun Fact: The power station has graced numerous album covers, most famously Pink Floyd's 1977 album "Animals," featuring a giant inflatable pig floating between its chimneys.

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    🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

    Bringing a story of such cosmic scope to the screen, especially one so beloved by sci-fi fans, involves immense creative and logistical challenges. Lord and Miller's vision for "Project Hail Mary" focuses on both the grand adventure and the human heart at its core.

    🎭 Director's Vision

  • 🎯 Location Strategy: The choice of real-world UK locations for the Earth-bound scenes is key to grounding the story. These places provide a tangible sense of normalcy and urgency before Ryland Grace embarks on his extraordinary mission.
  • 🎨 Visual Style: Expect a blend of gritty realism for the Earth scenes and breathtaking, innovative visuals for the space sequences. The UK locations contribute to a visually diverse palette that contrasts with the alien vastness.
  • 🎪 Production Highlights

  • 🎬 Complex Sci-Fi Elements: The film tackles intricate scientific concepts from the book, requiring extensive visual effects and set design to make them believable.
  • 🎭 Star Power Casting: With Ryan Gosling at the helm, the film aims for compelling performances that anchor the human story amidst the grand cosmic stakes.
  • 🎨 UK Film Industry Hub: Filming in Manchester and London leverages the UK's robust film infrastructure, skilled crews, and diverse architectural backdrops.
  • 🎯 Book Adaptation Pressure: The production team faces the exciting challenge of living up to the massive fan expectations generated by Andy Weir's novel.
  • 🌟 Cast & Crew Stories

  • 😄 Ryan Gosling's Prep: Reports indicate Gosling undertook significant research to understand the scientific intricacies of his character, Ryland Grace, truly embodying the role.
  • 😮 Logistical Marvel: Coordinating shoots in bustling city centers like London and Manchester required meticulous planning to minimize disruption while capturing authentic urban energy.
  • 🎉 Collaborative Genius: Lord and Miller are known for fostering highly creative and collaborative sets, encouraging innovative problem-solving for the film's complex visuals and narrative.
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    🗺️ Plan Your Visit

    Ready to follow Project Hail Mary's Earthly origins? Exploring Manchester, Liverpool, and London offers a fantastic multi-city adventure for any film fan.

    🏨 Where to Stay

  • 💰 Budget: easyHotel Manchester - $60-90/night - Offers no-frills, central accommodation, perfect for base camp in Manchester.
  • 🏛️ Mid-Range: The Principal Manchester - $120-200/night - A grand, historic hotel near Princess Street, offering character and comfort in Manchester. For London, consider The Hoxton, Southwark - Stylish and well-located, great for exploring.
  • ✨ Luxury: The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel - $250+/night - Located near Princess Street, this hotel offers opulent comfort and superb amenities. In London, The Langham, London or The Savoy offer quintessential luxury.
  • 🚗 Getting Around

  • 🚇 Metro: Both Manchester and London boast excellent public transport networks. Manchester has the Metrolink tram system, while London's Underground (the "Tube") is world-class. It’s the easiest way to hop between filming locations.
  • 🚗 Car: Driving in central London and Manchester is not recommended due to congestion charges, parking difficulties, and complex one-way systems. Stick to public transport or taxis/ride-shares.
  • 🚶 Walking: Many of the locations within Manchester and London's city centers are walkable, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes! Liverpool city centre is also very walkable.
  • 📸 Photo Tips

  • 🌅 Best Times: Early mornings on weekdays are ideal for capturing iconic landmarks without huge crowds. Golden hour (pre-sunset) offers beautiful light for street photography.
  • 📱 Instagram Spots: Head to the Northern Quarter for incredible street art, or capture Nelson's Column at Trafalgar Square from unique angles. The architectural details of The Cunard Building are also stunning.
  • 🎬 Movie Moments: Recreate Ryland Grace's contemplative moments in front of classic architecture or envision the general public's reaction in the bustling squares. Think about the mood and scale of the film.
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    ❓ Quick Answers

    🎬 Is this based on a true story?

    No, "Project Hail Mary" is a work of science fiction, based on the highly acclaimed novel by Andy Weir, known for his scientifically accurate and engaging storytelling.

    🗺️ Can I visit all locations in one day?

    Visiting all locations in one day would be extremely challenging. Manchester and Liverpool are in a different region than London. Focus on either the Manchester/Liverpool sites for one trip or the London sites for another; or plan a multi-day itinerary.

    💰 How much should I budget?

    A realistic budget for a multi-city UK film tourism trip (including travel, mid-range accommodation, food, and activities) would be £100-200 ($120-250 USD) per person per day, excluding international flights.

    📱 Are there guided tours?

    While there might not be specific Project Hail Mary film tours yet, you can find excellent walking tours in Manchester, Liverpool, and London that cover historical and architectural highlights, often including these filming locations.

    🎭 When was this filmed?

    Filming for "Project Hail Mary" took place primarily in 2022, though exact dates for each location are usually kept under wraps. The film is currently slated for a 2026 release.

    🌍 Is England, UK safe for tourists?

    Yes, the UK is generally very safe for tourists. As with any major city, exercise standard precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and look after your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

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    🎬 Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

    "Project Hail Mary" might whisk us away to distant galaxies, but its roots are firmly planted in the real-world grandeur and grit of the UK. From the bustling streets of Manchester to the iconic landmarks of London and Liverpool, these locations offer a unique window into the film's narrative. They transform from mere backdrops into characters themselves, contributing to the emotional and visual depth of Ryland Grace's epic journey.

    So, whether you're a devoted fan of Andy Weir's novel, a sci-fi enthusiast, or simply an aspiring film tourist, these cinematic hotspots are calling your name. Plan your trip, relive the magic, and see how these incredible places helped craft one of the most anticipated films of the decade. Don't just watch the movie, step into its world!

    Year Released

    2026

    Director

    Phil Lord, Christopher Miller

    Filming Locations

    5 locations

    Behind the Scenes

    Adapting Andy Weir's beloved novel, Project Hail Mary, into a feature film is a monumental task. Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are renowned for their innovative visual storytelling, from animated blockbusters to live-action hits. For this cinematic journey, the team has meticulously selected real-world locations in the UK to ground the fantastical space odyssey with relatable, visceral Earth-bound scenes. These locations likely serve as crucial backdrops for protagonist Ryland Grace's memories and scientific endeavors before his interstellar mission.

    • Based on the bestselling novel by Andy Weir, author of 'The Martian'.
    • Ryan Gosling is set to star as Ryland Grace.
    • The film combines elements of mystery, humor, and hard science fiction.
    • Despite its space-heavy plot, key Earth sequences were filmed across the UK.
    • Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are known for their blend of comedy and action.
    • The production reportedly utilized practical sets alongside extensive CGI.
    • Early production buzz highlighted the complex scientific accuracy aimed for.
    • The film is anticipated to be a visual spectacle, pushing boundaries of space storytelling.
    • Adapting a first-person narrative like the novel presented unique challenges for the scriptwriters.
    • Manchester and London provide diverse architectural backdrops for flashback scenes.
    • Securing access to prominent city landmarks required significant logistical planning.
    • The film's pre-production involved extensive scientific consultation.

    Location Gallery

    Princess Street

    Princess Street

    Northern Quarter

    Northern Quarter

    The Cunard Building

    The Cunard Building

    Trafalgar Square

    Trafalgar Square

    Battersea Power Station

    Battersea Power Station

    Travel Tips

    • Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.

    • Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.

    • Guided tours are available that cover Princess Street, Northern Quarter, The Cunard Building in one day.

    Filming Locations

    Discover all 5 locations where 🎬 Where Was Project Hail Mary Filmed? Complete England, UK Location Guide was filmed

    View Locations

    Interactive Location Map

    Loading map...

    Explore all 5 filming locations on the interactive map above. Click on markers for details.

    Filming Locations

    Map of Princess Street
    1

    Princess Street

    Historic street in Manchester, England.

    LAT 53.47760, LNG -2.24150
    Directions
    Map of Northern Quarter
    2

    Northern Quarter

    Trendy district in Manchester, England.

    LAT 53.48420, LNG -2.23560
    Directions
    Map of The Cunard Building
    3

    The Cunard Building

    Iconic building at Pier Head, Liverpool, England.

    LAT 53.40680, LNG -2.99610
    Directions
    Map of Trafalgar Square
    4

    Trafalgar Square

    Famous public square in London, England.

    LAT 51.50730, LNG -0.12760
    Directions
    Map of Battersea Power Station
    5

    Battersea Power Station

    Landmark decommissioned coal-fired power station in London, England.

    LAT 51.48160, LNG -0.14240
    Directions

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