Ready to explore a place where legends were made? Riverside Studios stands before us. It is more than just a building. It is a launchpad for groundbreaking performances and television.
Riverside Studios began its life as a compact film studio in 1933. Triumph Films converted a Victorian iron foundry. Jack Buchanan later owned the studios. Vera Lynn and James Mason graced its stages.
In 1954, the BBC acquired Riverside Studios. It became the BBC Riverside Television Studios. Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother officially opened it in 1957. “Hancock’s Half Hour” and “Doctor Who” were filmed here. William Hartnell’s regeneration scene was filmed in Studio 1. The BBC left in 1974.
A charitable trust took over in 1974. The building transformed into an arts centre. Peter Gill became the first Artistic Director. He allowed The Strand to rehearse. They became the Sex Pistols. Riverside Studios gained an international reputation. “The Cherry Orchard” and “The Changeling” were performed.
Riverside Studios hosted Dance Umbrella seasons. Artists like Bruce McLean and Ian Coughlin were residents. Michael Parkinson interviewed Henry Kissinger here. Art exhibitions featured Howard Hodgkin and David Hockney.
Michael Clark became Riverside’s first resident choreographer in 1980. Samuel Beckett rehearsed “Endgame” here. A 200-seat cinema opened in 1987. Adelaide Hall filmed a concert here in 1990.
William Burdett-Coutts became Artistic Director in 1993. TFI Friday and Celebrity Juice filmed here. Riverside Studios closed for redevelopment in 2014.
Mount Anvil redeveloped Riverside Studios. Assael Architecture designed the new building. It included residential flats and new studios. A riverside walkway was added.
Riverside Studios reopened in 2019. Woody Harrelson and Eddie Izzard have performed here. Community groups use the spaces. Screenings of “Doctor Who” and “Hancock’s Half Hour” occur.
Top of the Pops recorded specials here in 2020 and 2021. A BBC Heritage Trail plaque was unveiled in 2022.
Anil Agarwal purchased Riverside Studios in 2025. It will operate under the Anil Agarwal Riverside Studios Trust.
Riverside Studios has five studios. Studio 1 is the largest. It has audience seating. Riverside TV operates it.
Riverside Studios continues to host theatre productions. “Happy Days” and “Great Expectations” have been performed. Dance productions and comedy shows also take place.
Riverside Studios stands as a testament to the power of art. It is a place where creativity thrives. It is a place where memories are made. Take a moment to appreciate the legacy.