Top 7 Animation Companies Manchester Has to Offer in 2025

Manchester's vibrant creative scene is a hub for world-class animation, producing everything from beloved children's TV series to cutting-edge VR experiences. With so much talent packed into one city, finding the right partner for your project can be a significant challenge. Whether you need a slick explainer video for a complex tech product, a broadcast-quality TV series, or an immersive AR experience for an exhibition, pinpointing a studio that aligns with your vision, budget, and technical requirements is crucial for success. This guide simplifies your search. We have curated a definitive list of the best animation companies Manchester has to offer, providing a clear and direct overview of their capabilities. For each studio, we will detail their unique specialisms, highlight their most impressive projects, and explain what makes them a strong contender for your next creative venture. You will find actionable insights to help you distinguish between a motion graphics specialist and an XR development powerhouse. This article is designed to help businesses, marketing agencies, and producers make a more informed decision. We provide the essential details you need to confidently shortlist potential creative partners, complete with direct links to their portfolios so you can see their work first-hand.

1. Studio Liddell

With a broadcast pedigree stretching back to 1996, Studio Liddell is one of the most versatile and technologically advanced animation companies in Manchester. As a full-service creative studio, they deliver end-to-end production, guiding projects from the initial pitch right through to final delivery. Their comprehensive services cover a wide spectrum, from broadcast-quality 2D/3D animation for TV series and ads to pioneering virtual and augmented reality (XR) experiences for training, exhibitions, and entertainment.

Studio Liddell excels by integrating deep creative storytelling with cutting-edge production technology. They are specialists in real-time pipelines using Unity and Unreal Engine, which allows them to deliver exceptionally high-quality content efficiently. This technical expertise enables them to handle diverse and complex projects, from character and creature animation for the beloved BooSnoo series on Sky Kids to award-winning VR short films and high-impact technical animations for enterprise clients.

Key Strengths and Service Highlights

Studio Liddell’s primary advantage is its ability to act as a complete, in-house creative partner, managing the entire production process from concept to multi-platform deployment.

• •2D/3D Animation Services: The studio offers a full suite of animation capabilities, including character animation, motion graphics, and CGI for television series, commercials, and explainer videos. Their workflow covers everything from the initial brief and storyboarding to final lighting, rendering, and compositing.
• •VR/AR Production: As a leading VR production studio in Manchester, they design and develop immersive experiences, including training simulations, location-based VR (LBVR), and AR solutions for retail and exhibitions. Their work on titles like Aurora demonstrates their award-calibre creative and technical skills in the XR space.
• •Proven Broadcast Pedigree: The studio's work is trusted by global leaders such as the BBC, Sky Kids, Disney, and Manchester United. This extensive portfolio provides undeniable proof of their ability to meet the rigorous quality and delivery standards of major broadcasters and brands.
• •IP Development and Strategy: Beyond client work, Studio Liddell is a strategic partner for IP development, helping brands extend children's properties across platforms, from TV series to games and interactive experiences.

Expert Insight: Studio Liddell’s unique combination of a rich broadcast animation heritage and forward-thinking expertise in real-time XR production makes them an ideal strategic partner. They can produce world-class content for today’s platforms while also guiding brands into the future of interactive entertainment.

Ideal Use Cases

The studio's broad skill set makes it a perfect choice for:

• •Entertainment Companies needing a reliable production partner for children's TV series, animated films, or game trailers.
• •Marketing Agencies looking for high-impact CGI commercials, brand films, or motion graphics services.
• •Enterprise and B2B Clients requiring sophisticated technical animations or VR training simulations for complex products and safety protocols.
• •Museums and Event Organisers seeking to create engaging, immersive experiences with AR and location-based VR.

While pricing is tailored to each project's scope, investing with Studio Liddell secures a partnership with a studio renowned for its creative excellence, technical innovation, and reliability.

Pros:

• •Comprehensive expertise across animation, XR, and app development.
• •Use of cutting-edge technologies for efficient, high-quality production.
• •Proven track record with world-renowned clients.
• •Award-winning portfolio and strong customer endorsements.

Cons:

• •Pricing information is not publicly available and requires direct consultation.
• •As a high-end studio, costs may be higher than smaller agencies.

For a deeper dive into their production capabilities, you can find more information about their animation services on studioliddell.com. Website: https://studioliddell.com

2. Flipbook Studio

Flipbook Studio is a powerhouse in Manchester’s city centre, delivering broadcast-quality animation, CGI, and visual effects across television, advertising, and immersive media. They operate as a full-service production partner, guiding projects from initial concept and storyboarding right through to final post-production and delivery. Their comprehensive approach makes them an ideal choice for businesses and creative agencies looking for a single, experienced team to manage the entire animation pipeline.

This studio distinguishes itself with a portfolio packed with high-calibre work for major broadcasters like the BBC, Netflix, Sky, and Channel 4. This pedigree demonstrates their capability to handle complex character animation, intricate visual effects, and compelling motion graphics that meet the highest industry standards. Their website effectively showcases this diversity, from gripping TV series sequences to visually stunning advertising campaigns.

Key Offerings and Specialities

Flipbook's services are built on an end-to-end production model, meaning they can join a project at any stage, but they excel when managing the full creative journey.

• •Broadcast & Advertising: They produce 2D and 3D animation for television series, commercials, and promotional content. Their team is adept at character design, rigging, and creating performances that resonate with audiences.
• •Immersive & Experiential: A standout feature is their work in large-scale digital installations. Projects like the dynamic digital ceiling at Printworks Manchester and immersive experiences for Chester Zoo highlight their ability to blend animation with physical spaces.
• •VFX & Post-Production: As a fully-equipped studio, they handle all aspects of visual effects, from cleanup and compositing to complex CGI integration.

What to Know Before Contacting

Flipbook Studio provides a bespoke, premium service tailored to the specific needs of each project. As such, they do not offer standard rate cards. To get a quote, you must contact them to scope the project requirements in detail. Their schedule can be tight during major productions, so it’s wise to reach out with ample lead time. For businesses seeking one of the most established and versatile animation companies in Manchester, especially for high-stakes broadcast or public-facing projects, Flipbook is a top-tier contender. Website: https://www.flipbookstudio.co.uk

3. Mighty Giant

Mighty Giant is a boutique animation and motion design studio in Manchester that punches well above its weight. They specialise in creating character-driven, narrative-led content for brands, agencies, and organisations looking to communicate their message with personality and flair. Operating as a focused creative partner, they guide projects from the initial idea and storyboarding stages all the way through to final animation, sound design, and delivery, ensuring a cohesive and polished final product. This studio stands out with its clear focus on crafting memorable explainer videos, branded films, and character animation. Their portfolio showcases a distinct, modern aesthetic that blends 2D and 3D techniques to create visually engaging and emotionally resonant stories. Clients like the BBC, Department for Education, and Age UK trust them to translate complex ideas into clear, accessible, and entertaining animated content. Their website is a transparent window into their process, featuring an active blog and detailed case studies.

Key Offerings and Specialities

Mighty Giant’s services are centred on a complete, in-house production workflow, making them a one-stop-shop for high-quality motion design.

• •Explainer & Branded Content: They excel at producing animated explainer videos that simplify complex topics. Their work is tailored to brand guidelines, making them a strong choice for corporate and marketing communications.
• •Character Animation: A core strength is their character work. They design, rig, and animate characters that bring warmth and relatability to brand stories and campaigns, using both 2D and 3D pipelines.
• •Motion Design: The studio produces a wide range of motion graphics, from slick logo stings and idents to detailed FUI (fictional user interface) animations for on-screen displays. You can find out more about the different types of motion graphics services for brands and their applications in the industry.

What to Know Before Contacting

As a boutique studio, Mighty Giant offers a collaborative and hands-on approach. Their smaller size ensures direct access to the creative team but may limit their capacity for managing multiple large-scale projects simultaneously. They do not publish a rate card, as all projects are quoted based on specific creative needs, complexity, and timelines. For businesses seeking a dedicated team of animation specialists in Manchester to produce characterful and stylish motion content, Mighty Giant is an excellent and highly-regarded choice. Website: https://mightygiant.co.uk

4. Flow Creative

Flow Creative is a multi-award-winning motion design and animation agency in Manchester that excels at the intersection of brand strategy, design systems, and animated storytelling. They position themselves as creative partners, focusing on producing work that not only looks stunning but is deeply integrated into a client's wider campaign goals. This strategic approach makes them an excellent fit for organisations looking for more than just an animation; they deliver motion content designed to achieve specific business outcomes.

The agency has built a strong reputation working with major UK organisations, including BBC Children in Need and Transport for Greater Manchester, showcasing their ability to handle high-profile, socially impactful projects. Their portfolio demonstrates a clean, modern aesthetic that translates effectively across brand films, social media campaigns, and explainer videos. What sets Flow Creative apart is their commitment to understanding the 'why' behind a project, often helping clients define their briefs and key performance indicators (KPIs) before production even begins.

Key Offerings and Specialities

Flow Creative’s services are built around a brand-first philosophy, ensuring every animation is a cohesive part of a client’s identity and marketing efforts.

• •Brand & Motion Strategy: They provide upfront strategic support to ensure the animation aligns perfectly with campaign objectives, target audience, and brand messaging.
• •Motion Design & Animation: Their core service is creating high-quality 2D and 3D motion graphics, character animation, and explainer videos tailored for digital platforms and advertising.
• •Campaign Integration: Flow specialises in producing suites of animated assets that work together across different channels, ensuring a consistent and powerful brand presence.

What to Know Before Contacting

Flow Creative is best suited for clients who value a strategic partnership and need animated content that is thoughtfully integrated into a larger marketing or brand campaign. Because of this in-depth approach, they may be over-scoped for businesses needing a simple, one-off animation with a very fast turnaround. Pricing is not publicly listed; prospective clients must get in touch to discuss their project in detail to receive a bespoke proposal. This strategic focus makes them one of the top animation companies in Manchester for organisations that need a creative ally, not just a supplier. Website: https://weareflow.uk/

5. Kilogramme

Kilogramme is a long-established and highly respected Manchester animation studio celebrated for its character-driven storytelling. Founded by directors with BAFTA-recognised experience, the company excels at producing engaging 2D and 3D content that brims with personality. They operate as a full-service creative partner, handling projects from initial concept, scripting, and design right through to final animation and delivery for broadcast, advertising, and cultural installations.

This studio's strength lies in its profound understanding of character performance. Whether using traditional frame-by-frame techniques or modern 3D software, their work consistently features memorable characters and compelling narratives. Their portfolio demonstrates a rich pedigree in producing content for major clients like the BBC, Channel 4, and cultural institutions such as the National Football Museum. This focus makes them a go-to choice for brands and agencies looking to create animation that connects with audiences on an emotional level.

Key Offerings and Specialities

Kilogramme’s services are centred on high-quality, character-led animation, making them one of the most specialised animation companies in Manchester for narrative work.

• •Character Animation (2D & 3D): This is their core specialism. The team are experts in creating everything from charming short films and TV title sequences to intricate commercials where character performance is paramount.
• •Motion Graphics: Alongside character work, they produce stylish and effective motion graphics that bring brand stories to life with clarity and visual flair.
• •Museum & Installation Content: The studio has a notable track record in creating bespoke animated content for exhibitions and public spaces, translating complex ideas into accessible and entertaining visual experiences.

What to Know Before Contacting

Kilogramme operates as a boutique studio, offering a dedicated and collaborative service. They do not publish a standard rate card, as all projects are priced based on their unique scope and complexity. Due to their focused team size, it is essential to contact them well in advance, especially for larger or time-sensitive projects. For those prioritising powerful character-driven storytelling and a proven track record in both broadcast and cultural sectors, Kilogramme is a standout choice. Website: https://www.kilogramme.co.uk

6. The Neighbourhood

The Neighbourhood is a multi-disciplinary creative studio that fuses high-end CGI, animation, and film with brand strategy, often with a focus on property, placemaking, and real estate. Positioned at the intersection of architectural visualisation and narrative storytelling, they create premium animated content designed to launch brands, sell developments, and build immersive experiences. Their integrated approach means they can handle a project from the initial brand concept right through to the final polished film, making them a one-stop partner for ambitious marketing campaigns.

This studio stands out due to its exceptional craftsmanship in CGI and photorealistic visualisation. Their portfolio isn't just a collection of animations; it's a showcase of finely tuned brand worlds brought to life. They excel at creating high-fidelity CG content that feels tangible and emotionally resonant, whether it's for a new property development, a brand launch, or an interactive virtual reality experience. This specialisation makes them one of the go-to animation companies in Manchester for projects demanding world-class visual aesthetics.

Key Offerings and Specialities

The Neighbourhood’s services are built around a holistic creative model, combining strategic thinking with powerful visual execution to achieve specific commercial goals.

• •CGI & Architectural Visualisation: Their core strength lies in creating stunningly realistic CGI and animations for the property and real estate sectors. This includes marketing films, fly-throughs, and still imagery that helps sell a vision before it's built.
• •Animation & Film: Beyond property, they produce sophisticated 2D and 3D animated content for brand films, commercials, and digital campaigns, always with a strong emphasis on design and cinematic quality.
• •VR & Interactive Experiences: They leverage their CGI expertise to build immersive and interactive VR applications, allowing audiences to explore unbuilt spaces or engage with products in a deeply compelling way.

What to Know Before Contacting

The Neighbourhood offers a premium, bespoke service where pricing is tailored to each project's unique creative and strategic requirements. They do not have a standard rate card; a detailed consultation is necessary to scope the work and provide an accurate quote. Their focus on high-fidelity CGI and property means they are best suited for clients with significant projects, and they might not be the right fit for businesses seeking simple, low-cost explainer videos. For brands in the property, placemaking, or luxury sectors, their integrated strategic and creative offering is a powerful asset. Website: https://www.the-neighbourhood.com

7. Clutch: Top Animation Companies in Manchester

Rather than a single studio, Clutch is a comprehensive B2B marketplace and directory that offers a curated, data-driven way to discover and compare animation providers. For businesses needing to survey the landscape of animation companies in Manchester, it serves as an invaluable research tool. It aggregates top local agencies, presenting them with verified client reviews, detailed service lines, and crucial project details like typical budget ranges and hourly rates, enabling a structured shortlisting process.

This platform excels by bringing transparency to the often-opaque process of commissioning creative work. Users can filter Manchester-based studios by budget, team size, client focus, and specific animation services like 2D, 3D, or motion graphics. Each vendor profile acts as a digital portfolio, frequently featuring case studies, leadership bios, and most importantly, independently verified testimonials from past clients. This peer-reviewed model helps businesses gauge not just creative quality but also project management and client service standards.

Key Offerings and Specialities

Clutch isn't a producer but a powerful facilitator, streamlining the search for the right creative partner. Its value lies in its structured data and comparison tools.

• •Verified Reviews and Rankings: The platform's core strength is its system of verified reviews, where Clutch analysts often speak directly with a studio’s former clients to ensure authenticity.
• •Detailed Search Filters: Users can quickly narrow their search by minimum project size (e.g., £5,000+), hourly rate bands, and service specialities, saving significant time during initial research.
• •Side-by-Side Comparisons: Clutch allows you to select multiple studios and compare them directly on key metrics, helping you build a data-backed shortlist for outreach.

What to Know Before Contacting

Using Clutch effectively means treating it as a starting point for due diligence, not the final word. While it provides excellent pricing signals, remember that some listings may be sponsored, and not every top-tier Manchester studio actively maintains a profile. Cross-reference your shortlist with the studios' direct websites and portfolios. For businesses looking to quickly benchmark multiple animation studios against their budget and specific needs, Clutch is an efficient and transparent first step. Website: https://clutch.co/agencies/video-production/animation/uk/england/manchester

Top 7 Manchester Animation Studios Comparison

Choosing Your Creative Partner in Manchester

Manchester's vibrant creative scene is clearly reflected in its world-class animation industry. As we've explored, the city is home to a diverse array of studios, each with its own unique specialisation, style, and approach. From the character-driven narratives of Kilogramme to the strategic brand storytelling of Flow Creative, the talent pool is both deep and varied. This curated list demonstrates that whether your project requires stunning 3D realism, charming 2D motion graphics, or immersive XR experiences, you can find a team of exceptional animation companies in Manchester ready to bring your vision to life. The key takeaway is that finding the right fit goes beyond simply liking a studio's showreel. It requires a deeper alignment of your specific project goals with their core competencies, production pipeline, and collaborative style.

Actionable Next Steps for Selecting Your Studio

Making the final decision can feel daunting, but a structured approach simplifies the process. Before you reach out, crystallise your project requirements to ensure you have a productive first conversation. Consider these crucial factors:

• •Portfolio Alignment: Does the studio’s past work resonate with your project's tone and technical needs? Look for examples in a similar industry or with a comparable objective, such as a technical explainer video or an interactive training simulation.
• •Technical Expertise: Evaluate their proficiency in the required medium. If you need a VR training application, a studio specialising in XR development like Studio Liddell or The Neighbourhood would be a better fit than one focused solely on 2D advertising.
• •Communication and Process: Ask about their production workflow. How do they handle briefs, feedback, and revisions? A transparent and collaborative process is vital for keeping a complex project on track and on budget.
• •Scalability and Scope: Can the studio handle the scale of your project? A large-scale broadcast series requires a different infrastructure and team size than a one-off social media asset. Be clear about your long-term ambitions.

Final Thoughts on Manchester's Animation Scene

Ultimately, choosing an animation partner is about building a creative relationship. The studios highlighted in this article represent the pinnacle of Manchester's creative output, showcasing a blend of artistic innovation and commercial acumen. By carefully assessing your needs against their proven strengths, you can confidently select a partner who will not only meet your brief but elevate it. The city’s dynamic energy fuels these creative powerhouses, making it an undeniable UK hub for animation excellence. --- With a heritage in broadcast-quality production since 1996, Studio Liddell stands as one of the most experienced and versatile animation companies in Manchester, offering a complete end-to-end service from 2D/3D animation to pioneering VR and AR development. To see how our award-winning team can transform your concept into a compelling reality, visit us at Studio Liddell and book a production scoping call today.