Where’s the Best City to Be an Actor in the UK?
(Spoiler: It’s Not Just London Anymore)
If you’re serious about acting, where you base yourself can make or break your early career. The UK is packed with cities buzzing with creative energy — from world-famous theatre stages to Netflix-ready film sets.
Whether you’re looking to study, build connections, or jump straight into professional work, the right city can open the right doors. And while London still dominates, there’s a new wave of creative hotspots — with Glasgow leading the charge north of the border.
Let’s take a look at the best cities for actors who are ready to make things happen.
London – The Giant That Never Sleeps
London is still the heavyweight. If you walk through the West End at night, you’ll feel it — the hum of theatre, TV, and film all happening in one place. Casting directors, agents, major production companies… they’re all here.
It’s where dreams get tested, careers get made, and competition is fierce. Training options range from household names like RADA and LAMDA to countless smaller studios and short courses.
But that prestige comes with a cost — literally. Living in London is expensive, and many new actors burn out trying to stay afloat. If you’ve got the resources (and stamina), the opportunities are endless. If not, there are cities where your talent can shine without breaking the bank.
Why go? You’ll be in the centre of the UK entertainment industry.
Why not? Rent prices, packed tubes, and a sea of competition.
Glasgow – Scotland’s Rising Star
For actors who want real community and serious training, Glasgow has become one of the most exciting creative cities in the UK. It’s bold, warm, affordable, and full of opportunity.
The city’s energy is infectious — productions like Outlander, Vigil and The Rig film here regularly, and the local arts scene is thriving. With BBC Scotland, National Theatre of Scotland, and multiple creative studios all based here, Glasgow is building a name as the UK’s second creative capital.
That’s why more and more actors (including international students) are choosing to train in Glasgow — and at Acting Coach Scotland, we’re right at the centre of it all.
We offer Full-Time Acting Courses for stage and screen — from our HNC Foundation to our Professional Diploma — and we’re an official UK Student Visa Sponsor, which means international students can study with us legally and securely.
Prefer something shorter? Our International Short Acting Programmes deliver high-impact actor training over just a few weeks — perfect for those who want a taste of professional UK-style performance without a long-term commitment.
With affordable living, quick access to the Edinburgh Fringe, and a community that genuinely supports its artists, Glasgow is where passion meets possibility.
Why go? Affordable, creative, friendly, and home to world-class training.
Why not? A smaller industry than London — but growing fast.
Manchester – The Northern Power Player
If you love energy, collaboration, and a thriving TV scene, Manchester is a brilliant base. Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, and BBC North at MediaCityUK have made it a magnet for actors and filmmakers.
Theatre lovers have plenty to feed on too — with HOME, the Royal Exchange, and a lively independent scene. The cost of living is lower than London, and the creative community is famously welcoming.
Why go? Booming screen industry and inclusive theatre culture.
Why not? Some castings still mean a trip down south.
Bristol – The Indie Heart of the South West
Bristol punches well above its weight for a smaller city. It’s home to Aardman Animations, BBC Bristol, and one of the UK’s oldest and most respected theatres, the Bristol Old Vic.
If you’re drawn to film, voice work, or devised theatre, this is a great city for experimentation. There’s a strong community spirit and plenty of opportunities to collaborate with other creatives — directors, filmmakers, animators, and musicians.
Why go? Distinctive creative identity and strong film culture.
Why not? Still relatively small for full-time acting work.
Leeds – The Quiet Achiever
Leeds is a city that’s quietly transformed itself into a hub for screen and stage. Channel 4’s headquarters and ITV Yorkshire are both based here, and the excellent Leeds Playhouse continues to produce top-tier regional theatre.
Add in Leeds Conservatoire and a growing network of local casting offices, and you’ve got a city that’s fast becoming a strong option for actors who want a northern base with genuine opportunity.
Why go? Affordable, ambitious, and rapidly expanding.
Why not? Still developing its reputation nationally.
So, Where Should You Go?
If you want prestige and scale, London is still king.
If you want affordability, opportunity, and community, Glasgow is the one to watch.
It’s a city that nurtures talent, supports creativity, and gives actors real chances to grow. And at Acting Coach Scotland, we’re proud to train the next generation of stage and screen talent right here.
🎭 Ready to take your first step?
Explore our Full-Time Courses or International Short Acting Programmes — and start building your acting career in Scotland’s creative capital.
