Major studio deals and world class crews are turning Ireland into a global TV and film hotspot.
Ireland is no longer just a scenic backdrop. It’s becoming one of the most important strategic filming hubs in global cinema. From tax incentives to world class studios, Ireland is becoming Hollywood’s favourite filming location.
From its dramatic coastlines, historic castles and beautiful landscapes have attracted filmmakers for many years.
However in more recent years, something has shifted. Major Hollywood productions are no longer coming for the beauty of Ireland, they are coming to put Ireland on the global production map.
From Star Wars (2015, 2017) and Harry Potter (2009) to The Banshees of Inisherin (2022) and the upcoming wave of high-budget productions, Ireland and its landscapes and studios continue to be used as the base for some of Hollywood’s biggest productions.
Ireland’s production surge – tax breaks, talent and timing
Ireland’s production surge has been driven by Section 481 tax incentives and the backing of Screen Ireland. The national agency is responsible for developing the Irish film industry.
The incentive offers up to 32% tax relief on eligible Irish expenditure. Making Ireland financially competitive with major production hubs such as the UK, Canada and parts of Eastern Europe.
The scheme has been credited for helping to boost Ireland’s screen industry over the past decade. This encourages not only international productions but also the development of domestic talent and infrastructure.
In 2024, Ireland witnessed the filming of Season 2 for the popular show Wednesday. The filming took place in Dublin City including locations Trinity College and Deansgrange Cemetery.
Other Irish locations included County Wicklow’s Powerscourt Estate and Charleville Castle. Ireland’s weather and climate helped to capture the show’s dark moody atmosphere aesthetic.
Directed by Michael Sarnoski and starred Hugh Jackman and Jodie Comer, in 2025 The Death of Robin Hood was filmed in Belfast and the Irish landscape of County Down, including the Silent Valley and Murlough Bay.
It’s no coincidence that Hollywood productions have increased their Irish footprint since the expansion of Section 481 in recent years.
Ireland’s world class studios and crew – how film fuels tourism and jobs
Ireland’s appeal to international studios is no longer limited to its dramatic landscapes. Facilities such as Tory Studios in Limerick have transformed the county into a full scale production base.
In January 2026, a multimillion euro agreement between Biggerstage and Tory Studios signalled a new phrase for Irish Production. The creation of a global unscripted television hub designed to attract major international formats to the west of Ireland
Game of Thrones turned parts of Ireland into global tourist hotspots. While Star Wars brought renewed attention to Ireland’s West Coast, in particular to County Kerry’s Skellig Islands. The Banshees of Inisherin showcased the Aran Islands and Achill to millions of viewers worldwide.
Tourists to Ireland increasingly seek out filming locations, boosting local hospitality and transport services. For Ireland, the cultural export value of cinema is now intertwined with its tourism strategy.
From filming locations to creative command centre – Ireland’s industry evolution
Most importantly, Ireland is no longer just serving as a substitute for somewhere else. Irish stories are being funded, distributed, and celebrated internationally.
From award winning independent films to globally recognised television dramas, Ireland is producing work that travels and attracts millions of people to watch and enjoy.
With more productions already announced for the coming years, this is unlikely to slow down anytime soon.
In 2026, Ireland will see the production of One For All, starring Brad Pitt, filming has already taken place in County Cork.
The production of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is underway in Belfast. The second season of this Game of Thrones prequel, with season 3 filming back-to-back, set for a 2027 release.
Ireland didn’t suddenly become Hollywood’s favourite by accident. It built the infrastructure, supported the industry, and positioned itself at exactly the right time.
