Local business owners reported a buzz around filming, noting potential positive effects on trade and York’s visibility in a Hollywood-backed project.

Residents and shop staff observed filming despite rain, with onlookers following takes and York’s cinema profile rising.

Filming for a festive feature began in early October around York’s Colliergate and Fossgate, with Bradley and other cast members shooting on location.

York was selected for its sheer beauty, with planned shots near landmarks like the Minster and the Shambles.

The plot centers on an amateur production of A Christmas Carol staged at a retirement home, directed by a reclusive man serving community service.

John Bradley, known for Game of Thrones, is part of the Christmas film Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint, which is shooting in York for a 2026 release.

The festive film Merry Christmas Aubrey Flint began shooting in York, with a planned 2026 release.

The production is directed by Jack Spring and produced by Andy Brunskill of SUMS Film & Media Ltd, with collaboration from Shush Films and Tyke Films for WestEnd Films.

SUMS Film & Media Ltd issued a notice advising patience and outlining safety and access during a filming week-long schedule.

The project was written by Chris Boyle-McQuarry and is being distributed by WestEnd Films.

Sally Ashton of Barnitts praised the shoot as well-organised, with staff support and the department store used to store equipment.

Kiell Smith-Bynoe joins a cast that includes Richard E. Grant, Celia Imrie, Adjoa Andoh, Karl Pilkington and Dustin Demri-Burns.