Any filming or photography on or featuring the River Thames and her connected docks and waterways requires a license. Depending on where you are planning to film on the Thames, permission could be required from one, or a number of authorities. Please note this is an additional cost on top of and not linked to our charges. Faliure to produce a valid license will result in cancellation of your booking. If this isn't enough nature is doing it's best to get in the way to - please see our tides page for further information.
The Tidal River Thames (Teddington - Gravesend)
Any filming or photography on the tidal river Thames is controlled by the Port of London Authority. The Port of London Authority (PLA) were established in 1908 for the purpose of administering, preserving and improving the port of London. We have a close relationship with the PLA, being one of the river's premier operators.
For further information and to request a filming license please contact Martin Garside (PLA Port Promotions) on 01474 562 366.
How will the tides affect me?
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The Non-Tidal Thames (Upriver of Teddington)
The Environment Agency (EA) have a similar role to the PLA in controlling activity on the upriver, non-tidal Thames. We operate a company in Maidenhead and have a thorough knowledge of the idilic upper reaches.
For further information please contact Ms. Madeline Leahu (Waterways Department) on 01189 535 744.
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The Docks & Waterways (West India, Royal Docks, Canals, Etc)
The docks, canals and waterways surrounding the Thames provide unique locations and backdrops for filming. The main authority conrtolling activities being British Waterways who have a dedicated Unit Base for handling filming permissions and helping with location search. Please contact Anthony Iredale (Main Contact) on 020 8439 9220
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Other Authorities
Many filming sequences involve both land and river therefore you may also need to contact the riparian borough councils for permission. Please find below a list of the 16 boroughs with links for your convinence: