At first glance, Project Hail Mary looks like a story that exists far beyond Earth. Most of the film takes place in deep space, following a lone astronaut on a mission to save humanity.
But here is the twist. The movie, based on the novel by Andy Weir and starring Ryan Gosling, was filmed largely right here on Earth. More specifically, across the United Kingdom.
From massive studio-built spacecraft interiors to dramatic coastal cliffs that double as emotional Earth scenes, Project Hail Mary blends practical filmmaking with real locations you can actually visit.
So how much of the movie is real, and can you go there yourself? Let’s break it down.
TL;DR
Project Hail Mary was filmed primarily in the United Kingdom. Most space scenes were created at Shepperton Studios, while real-world moments were shot at locations like Durdle Door for the film’s beach scenes. Some places are open to visitors, especially along the coast, while others remain private working sites.
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About Project Hail Mary: Cast, Plot, and Release
Before diving deeper into filming locations, here is a quick look at what Project Hail Mary is about.
Cast
- Ryan Gosling as Ryland Grace
- Sandra Hüller as Eva Stratt
The film is directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the duo known for blending humor with high-concept storytelling.
Plot
Based on the bestselling novel by Andy Weir, Project Hail Mary follows Ryland Grace, a middle school teacher who wakes up alone on a spacecraft with no memory of who he is or how he got there.
As his memories slowly return, he realizes he is on a desperate mission to save Earth from a mysterious cosmic threat known as the Petrova Line. With time running out and no backup, Grace must rely on science, problem-solving, and unexpected alliances to complete his mission.
The story moves between isolation in space and flashbacks on Earth, which is where many of the real filming locations come into play.
Release Date
Project Hail Mary is scheduled for release in 2026.
As anticipation builds, interest in its real-world filming locations has started to grow, especially among fans of science-driven films and travelers looking for unique destinations.
Where Was Project Hail Mary Filmed?
Production took place between June and October 2024, with the UK serving as the primary filming base.
Although the story moves between the United States and outer space, the filmmakers relied on British infrastructure for both studio work and on-location shooting. This approach allowed them to combine controlled environments with visually striking real landscapes.
The result is a film that feels expansive and cinematic, even though much of it was created within a relatively compact geographic area.
Inside the Hail Mary Spacecraft
Shepperton Studios
If there is one location that defines Project Hail Mary, it is Shepperton Studios.
This is where the production team built the interior of the Hail Mary spacecraft using large-scale practical sets. Instead of relying heavily on green screens, they constructed detailed environments across multiple sound stages. Lighting systems and massive black backdrops were used to simulate the feeling of space.
This choice gives the film a more grounded, tactile look. You can feel the textures, the confinement, and the isolation of the ship in a way that pure CGI often struggles to achieve.
Can you visit it? Not really. Shepperton is a working studio and is closed to the public. Still, it is worth knowing that one of the most “out of this world” movies was created inside a very real place.
Real Filming Locations You Can (Mostly) Visit
While the spacecraft scenes were filmed indoors, the movie does return to Earth for key emotional moments. These scenes were shot in several real UK locations.
Durdle Door (Beach Scenes)
This is the standout real-world location in the film.
Durdle Door, part of England’s famous Jurassic Coast, is widely believed to be used for the film’s beach scenes. These moments reconnect the story to Earth and provide a visual contrast to the isolation of space.
The location itself is striking. A natural limestone arch rises from the sea, surrounded by steep cliffs and a curved bay. On screen, it can feel almost alien, which makes it a perfect fit for a story that constantly shifts between Earth and the unknown.
The best part is that you can visit it. A short hike from the parking area brings you to the viewpoint, and from there you can walk down to the beach.
Travel tip: Go early in the morning or near sunset to avoid crowds and get the most cinematic light.
South Parade Pier
This classic seaside pier was reportedly used for flashback scenes from Ryland Grace’s life before the mission.
With its boardwalk, arcade atmosphere, and coastal views, it offers a grounded, everyday contrast to the high-stakes space storyline. Even if you are not certain which exact scenes were filmed here, it still fits the tone of the character’s Earth-bound memories.
The pier is open to the public and easy to access from Portsmouth city center.
Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory
For the science-heavy parts of the story, the production turned to real research environments.
The Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory, operated by the University of Cambridge, was used to represent facilities studying the mysterious “Petrova Line.” Its large radio telescopes and open fields give it an authentic scientific presence that is difficult to fake.
Access is limited, but the site occasionally opens during special events such as Open Cambridge.
The Hemel Hempstead School
Before becoming humanity’s last hope, Ryland Grace is a teacher.
This school stood in for his workplace, with classrooms transformed into science labs and everyday school environments adapted for filming. These scenes help establish his character before the story shifts into space.
As an active school, this location is not open for casual visits, but it is easy to pass by if you are in the area.
RAF Bentwaters
This former airbase was used for technical sequences, including testing and large-scale operations related to the astrophage crisis.
Its wide-open spaces and industrial feel make it ideal for scenes that require vehicles, equipment, and a sense of urgency.
Public access is limited, though parts of the site occasionally host events.
A Royal Fleet Auxiliary Vessel
Some scenes set aboard a military ship were filmed on a Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel, reportedly the RFA Wave Knight.
These moments add another layer of realism to the global response depicted in the film. As with most working vessels, this is not something you can visit casually.
Can You Visit Project Hail Mary Filming Locations?
Yes, but with some limits.
You can visit:
- Durdle Door
- South Parade Pier
Limited or occasional access:
- Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory
Not open to the public:
- Shepperton Studios
- RAF Bentwaters
- The Hemel Hempstead School
If you are planning a trip, the coastal locations are your best bet. They are scenic, accessible, and closely tied to the film’s most visually memorable Earth scenes.
Suggested 2-Day Filming Locations Itinerary
If you want to turn this into a mini movie-themed trip, here is a simple route.
Day 1: London to Portsmouth
- Start in London
- Pass by Shepperton Studios (view from outside only)
- Continue to South Parade Pier
- Stay overnight in Portsmouth
Day 2: Jurassic Coast Adventure
- Drive to Durdle Door
- Explore the cliffs and beach
- Optional: visit nearby Lulworth Cove
This route is simple, scenic, and focused on locations you can actually experience.
Why the UK Was Chosen
The UK offers a unique combination of advantages for a film like Project Hail Mary.
- World-class studios like Shepperton Studios
- Diverse landscapes within short travel distances
- Strong film infrastructure and tax incentives
This makes it possible to recreate multiple settings, from suburban schools to dramatic coastlines, without leaving the country.
Final Thoughts
Project Hail Mary may tell a story about space, but its roots are firmly grounded in real places.
While you will not be able to step inside the Hail Mary spacecraft, you can stand on the cliffs of Durdle Door, walk along a seaside pier, and visit locations that helped bring the story to life.
For fans of the book, movie lovers, or travelers looking for something different, these filming locations offer a chance to connect fiction with reality in a surprisingly tangible way.
FAQs
Where was Project Hail Mary filmed?
Primarily in the United Kingdom, using a mix of studios and real locations.
Where were the beach scenes filmed?
They are widely believed to have been filmed at Durdle Door.
Can you visit Shepperton Studios?
No, it is a private working studio and not open to the public.
Was Project Hail Mary filmed in the US?
Most filming took place in the UK, even for scenes set in the United States.
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