If you’re a science fiction fan, you owe it to yourself to get an Apple TV subscription. The streamer has already been making waves with shows like shows like “Pluribus” and “Severance,” and has now enticed even more fanatics with the release of “Silo.” The series, based on the Hugh Howey novels of the same name, centers on a dystopian community entirely concealed within a network of underground grain silos that protect survivors from the dangers of the outdoors.
Whether you’re binge-watching the show for its stacked cast of actors, its intense science fiction themes, or its intriguing deep dive into human psychology, one thing probably hasn’t crossed your mind: visiting the series’ filming locations. Since “Silo” takes place almost entirely indoors, there’s a real dearth of stunning backdrops that you’d normally associate with the most picturesque cinematic achievements. Even still, you may change your mind about visiting the production sites for this series once you learn that it was shot entirely in and around beautiful London, England.
Luckily, a visit to London won’t look anything like the cramped spaces and curved metal walls seen in “Silo.” We’ll offer some insight into how the series managed to curate its distinctive look and provide a few locally approved recommendations for the best restaurants, pubs, hotels and tourist sites you won’t want to miss on your next trip. Before long, you may even find yourself walking along the outside of the “Silo” filming locations, and wondering aloud what all the fuss is about. Once you see London for yourself, you’ll wonder how anyone in the show could mistake it for the barren wasteland seen in the narrative.
Has Season 4 Of ‘Silo’ Been Filmed?
Though season three of “Silo” only just began airing episodes a few weeks ago, season four has already been shot. Both seasons were filmed back-to-back last year, after Apple TV execs agreed to greenlight them as a combo package. According to ScreenRant, season four will be the show’s last, wrapping up the story with a concise and compelling ending. At this time, it’s likely that the fourth season isn’t yet finished and ready for release, since “Silo” requires a ton of CGI and post-production work. Still, the key actors have already shot their scenes and given their final bows to the camera. As we’ve already seen with the first half of season three, “Silo” is heading in bold new directions with its final batch of episodes, so we may soon get a greater glimpse at the English countryside within the show. Of course, it probably still won’t be recognizable to the average tourist, given the series’ dystopian sci-fi nature.
Your Guide To Exploring Filming Locations In England
Key Scenes: Thanks to a confirmed scoop from Silverstein Locations, we can confirm that “Silo” was captured in various studios in and around London, including Hoddesdon Studios and Oma Studios. These massive indoor shooting facilities come equipped with soundstages, editing suites and ample open space for the crew to build their large sets. The soundstages serve as the primary filming location for the entire series, though several outdoor units have also been established alongside Formby Beach and the Hertfordshire County Council building. Unfortunately for “Silo” super-fans, none of these studio spaces are available for in-person tours at this time, as they are currently being used for a number of London-based film and television productions. On the off chance that you’re a producer looking to book your next project space, feel free to reach out.
Best Time to Visit: The spring months of April and May are generally considered the best time to visit London. Though the city is rich in history and culture, ripe for exploration year-round, the UK can experience oppressive heat waves during the summer. The lack of accessible air conditioning might make you feel more like Juliette Nichols exploring the lowest levels of the silo, but most travelers will probably want to stick to the cooler months, when they can enjoy a calm breeze without biting humidity.
Transportation Options: Speaking of the tube, London’s train system is a great way to traverse the city, especially if you’re staying relatively close to the action. Buses, cabs, and rideshares are also available across the Big Smoke, so you should have no trouble navigating during your stay. If you’re planning to venture far outside of the city into the great unknown, you’ll probably want to rent a car, but the whole of “Silo” filming locations can effectively be scouted in a single two to three-hour drive, so it might be prudent to save the money.
For fans looking to really enjoy the “Silo” experience, your best bet would be to head to London, take in the sights, and maybe cram yourself into the tube during rush hour. It may not be an underground community of apocalypse survivors, but it probably won’t feel too far off during the most claustrophobic commuting hours. Luckily, London also boasts a variety of exciting tourist destinations, so you should have no problem making the most of your vacation, even if “Silo” filming locations aren’t always top of mind.
Things to Do: For starters, be sure to get your bearings in the city with a big bus tour, a River Thames cruise tour, or even a trip to Warner Bros Studios to see where they shot other classic film and television projects such as the “Harry Potter” franchise. Once you’re settled in, consider visiting other must-see attractions like Stonehenge, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, or the Sky Garden, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Before you leave, see if you can squeeze in a trip to the London Eye, do some boutique shopping at Borough Market or take in a show at Wembley Stadium.
Where to Eat: One element of London that you’ll find completely antithetical to “Silo” is the myriad of delicious food options. Unlike the characters on the Apple original series, your dining choices will be nearly endless during your trip. Some of the best sit-down joints in the London area include trendy spots like Ottolenghi Spitalfields and Cafe In The Crypt. The city also has numerous Michelin star-rated kitchens, if you can squeeze in a reservation. Smokestak, Padella and Kiln all boast such honors, so you’ll have options even if seating is sold out for months.
Where to Stay: Hotels right in the heart of London have a tendency to be quite expensive, as they allow premier access to all the best pubs, shopping outlets and nightlife. Even still, you might be able to score a great deal if you look into any number of recognizable hotel chains. Holiday Inn, Travelodge, and Hilton locations are dotted all across the city, each offering solid amenities for the price. If you don’t mind spending a pretty penny for an upscale stay, you should look into pricier accommodations such as The Bailey’s Hotel on Kensington, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, and the London Bridge Hotel. Any way you slice it, the accommodations will be much homier than those of the “Silo” cast. Just remember not to take your flat walls and warm tones for granted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was “Silo” filmed in Canada?
No, “Silo” was not filmed in Canada during any portion of its four-season run. This news may come as a major surprise to some film fans, as many Canadian locales such as Toronto and Vancouver serve as production hubs for American TV shows. In this instance, Apple chose to shoot the series in London, primarily at the newly constructed Hoddesdon Studios.
Is “Silo” based on a true story?
Luckily, “Silo” is not based on a true story. The show is a work of complete fiction by the brilliant literary mind of Hugh Howey. Though portions of the COVID-19 pandemic may have had many people locked inside their homes, feeling claustrophobic and scared to venture outdoors, there has never been a real-life story that closely resembles the narrative of the series.
