Animation isn’t just entertainment it’s influence. In a fast-paced digital world, brands, storytellers, and marketers are turning to animation to communicate, connect, and captivate. And when it comes to the UK’s creative capital, London stands tall with some of the most innovative and award-winning animation studios in Europe.
Whether you’re launching a campaign, explaining a product, or building a brand identity, these studios combine technical precision with storytelling mastery.
Here’s a curated list of the top 10 animation companies in London where ideas don’t just move, they come to lif
What Makes London a Hub for Animation Companies?
London isn’t just the UK’s media capital. it’s a global magnet for animation talent. With its eclectic blend of art, tech, culture, and commerce, the city provides a fertile ground for creativity to flourish.
Animation companies in London thrive in this environment by collaborating with world-class brands, working on Oscar-winning films, and experimenting with cutting-edge visual storytelling techniques. This isn’t just about cartoons. it’s about immersive storytelling, dynamic branding, and emotional connection.
A Perfect Blend of Art and Technology
The secret sauce? London fuses traditional artistry with digital innovation. Studios here often house classically trained artists alongside AI engineers and motion graphics experts. It’s a mix that breeds both innovation and beauty.
How Did We Select the Best Animation Studios in London?
Picking just ten was tough there’s no shortage of talent in this city. We chose these studios based on:
- Creativity and originality in their work
- Industry recognition and awards
- The range and quality of services
- Reputation and client satisfaction
- Long-term impact and innovation
Beyond the Hype Substance Matters
We didn’t just look at who’s trending. These studios consistently deliver top-tier results and have the portfolios to back it up.
What Services Do These London Animation Companies Offer?
The service menu varies, but here’s a quick tour of what most top-tier studios bring to the table.
End-to-End Production
From early brainstorming to final render, London studios typically offer:
- Storyboarding and concept development
- Scripting and voiceovers
- Animation (2D, 3D, motion graphics)
- Sound design and post-production
- Visual effects and compositing
Tailored Content for Every Screen
Whether it’s an Instagram reel or a cinema ad, animation is adapted for various formats social, web, TV, film, or even immersive VR/AR environments.
Why Should You Choose a Local Animation Company in London?
Choosing a local animation company in London offers more than just geographical convenience.it’s about deeper collaboration, cultural alignment, and faster execution. London studios are immersed in the local market and cultural references, which is especially useful for businesses targeting UK-based audiences.
In-Person Collaboration & Creative Chemistry
When working with creative professionals, face-to-face meetings can make a huge difference. Sitting down with animators to brainstorm or review a storyboard in person allows for clearer communication and creative energy that’s hard to replicate over a video call.
- Faster feedback cycles
- Real-time idea development
- Instant clarity during revisions
Understanding of Local Culture and Audience
Animation for a UK-based audience benefits from local context. London studios intuitively understand British humour, cultural references, regional diversity, and compliance norms something global agencies might overlook.
Faster Turnaround and Hands-On Involvement
From location-based shoots to timely meetings, local studios are more flexible with project schedules. Being in the same timezone helps align availability and reduces waiting times.
What Are the Key Trends in the London Animation Industry?
Animation in London is rapidly evolving. Studios aren’t just creating content; they’re shaping how people interact with stories across devices, platforms, and realities.
Real-Time Animation and Virtual Production
London studios are embracing real-time engines like Unreal Engine to create animations at scale and speed. These tools allow for faster iterations and previews, especially useful in commercial and gaming sectors.
AI Integration in Workflow
From automating lip-sync to AI-assisted storyboarding, artificial intelligence is quietly transforming animation production in London. While still in its early stages, AI is reducing costs and speeding up development without sacrificing creativity.
Sustainability in Animation
Studios like Blue Zoo are pioneering sustainable animation production minimising energy use, reducing rendering loads, and using eco-friendly practices. With London’s green agenda growing, this is becoming a strong selling point.
Rise of Short-Form Social Content
With platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels dominating attention spans, brands are demanding short, punchy animations. Studios are responding with content optimised for vertical viewing and mobile engagement.
Can Animation Help Strengthen Your Brand in London’s Market?
Absolutely. In a saturated digital space, animation is one of the most powerful tools for storytelling, brand recognition, and audience retention.
Simplify Complex Messages
Whether you’re a fintech startup or a health service provider, animation helps break down complex ideas into digestible, visual narratives. People remember 80% of what they see, and animated visuals reinforce messages better than text alone.
Boost Brand Recall and Personality
Animations allow brands to define a unique tone. Through stylised visuals, voiceovers, and music, you can create a signature identity that stands out especially in competitive sectors like tech, education, or sustainability.
Versatility Across Marketing Channels
From explainer videos on your website to animated reels for social media, animation is highly adaptable. The same content can be repurposed for:
- Email campaigns
- Trade shows
- Paid advertising
- Onboarding sequences
For instance, a London-based energy firm used animated explainers to simplify their green energy offerings. This not only improved user understanding but also reduced support queries by 30%.
How Can You Choose the Right Animation Company in London for Your Project?
Finding the perfect animation partner is like dating you’re looking for creativity, communication, and compatibility.
Define Your Project Goals Clearly
Before you start browsing studios, understand what you want. Is it a 90-second explainer? A series of animated ads? A VR training video?
Knowing your objective helps you shortlist studios with the right expertise.
Assess Portfolios and Case Studies
Don’t just look at style check for storytelling, impact, and brand fit. A polished animation with zero emotional resonance won’t move your audience.
Look for:
- Variety in work
- Strong storytelling
- Visual innovation
- Industry-specific experience
Check for Transparent Process
Professional studios will outline their process upfront from discovery and scripting to animation and delivery. This includes:
- Timelines
- Revisions
- Costs
- Communication channels
If they’re vague or overly casual about it, it’s a red flag.
Ask About Collaboration Style
Some clients want to be hands-on; others prefer the studio to run with it. Either is fine but make sure the studio can work in your preferred style.
Communication is Key
A studio might be creative, but if communication is poor, deadlines can slip and visions can misalign. Look for teams that are responsive, articulate, and collaborative.
How Much Do Animation Services in London Cost?
The cost of animation depends on the project’s complexity, duration, style, and number of revisions. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you budget effectively.
| Service Type | Style/Use Case | Estimated Cost (GBP) | Timeline |
| 30-second 2D Explainer | Flat vector style, commercial use | £1,500 – £3,500 | 1–3 weeks |
| 60-second 2D Animation with voiceover | Website or product walkthrough | £2,500 – £6,000 | 2–4 weeks |
| 3D Product Animation | Product demos, marketing visuals | £4,000 – £10,000+ | 3–6 weeks |
| Full Motion Graphics Ad (60 sec) | Corporate or campaign use | £3,000 – £7,000 | 3–5 weeks |
| Character Animation (2D or 3D) | Games, series, marketing | £5,000 – £15,000+ | 4–8 weeks |
| Animated Series Pilot (2–3 mins) | Broadcast or streaming use | £10,000 – £30,000 | 6–12 weeks |
| AR/VR Animation for Apps/Installations | Interactive content, exhibitions | £7,000 – £25,000+ | 6–10 weeks |
Budgeting Tips
- Keep extra budget for revisions or scope changes
- Shorter videos = more affordable
- Reusable assets (like characters or icons) save cost in future projects
- Studios may offer packages or retainers for ongoing work
Which Are the Top 10 Animation Companies in London Right Now?
1. Passion Pictures – “Crafting Emotion Through Animation”
Passion Pictures is one of the UK’s most established and respected animation studios. Known for their emotionally resonant storytelling and film-quality animation, they’ve worked with brands like Adidas, The Guardian, and Coca-Cola, as well as producing Oscar-winning short films.
Specialty Highlight – Narrative Excellence in Animation
They excel in emotionally driven narratives, making them ideal for brand campaigns, documentaries, and artistic shorts.
Ideal Use Clients
Brands with purpose, agencies needing heartfelt storytelling, premium ad campaigns, and animated films.
- Website: passion-pictures.com
- Phone: +44 020 7323 9933
- Address: County House, 33-34 Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1JN, UK
- Email: info@passion-pictures.com
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“Everything felt like it had heart. Their animation didn’t just tell our story it made people feel it.” – Sarah P., Non-Profit Marketing Director
2. The Line – “Hand-Drawn Animation That Moves You”
The Line is an independent studio known for stunning hand-drawn animations with an emotional core. Their visuals are deeply expressive, combining traditional techniques with modern storytelling.
Specialty Highlight – High-End 2D Hand-Drawn Animation
Known for short films, music videos, and original IPs, they bring a refined, artistic feel to every frame.
Ideal Use Clients
Artists, media companies, music labels, and brands wanting unique, soulful animations.
- Website: thelineanimation.com
- Email: info@thelineanimation.com
- Phone: +44 (0)20 30020224
- Location: Unit 2, De Beauvoir Block, 92-96 De Beauvoir Rd, London N1 4EN, United Kingdom
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“Incredible craftsmanship. Their attention to detail in hand-drawn work is unmatched it feels like art.” – Marco L., Film Producer
3. Blinkink – “Where Animation Meets Experimental Storytelling”
Blinkink is one of the most daring studios on this list, blending live-action, puppetry, CGI, and 2D to create unforgettable visuals. Their work for Gorillaz, Nike, and BBC is testament to their boundary-pushing approach.
Specialty Highlight – Mixed Media & Hybrid Animation
They bring a raw, energetic edge to everything from commercials to music videos.
Ideal Use Clients
Brands seeking something unexpected, music videos, cutting-edge campaign visuals.
- Website: blinkink.co.uk
- Phone: +44 (0) 203 909 1760
- Address: Unit 1, Tramways House, 377 Camden Rd, London N7 0SH, United Kingdom
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“Bold. Weird. Beautiful. Blinkink doesn’t play it safe they make work that sticks in your head.” – Josh T., Creative Agency Partner
4. Aardman Animations – “Timeless Character, World-Class Craft”
Best known for Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep, Aardman combines heart, humour, and handcrafted animation like no other. While based in Bristol, they have a strong presence in London and work globally.
Specialty Highlight – Stop Motion & Iconic Character Animation
They create lovable characters and immersive worlds that connect across generations.
Ideal Use Cases or Clients
Family brands, educational platforms, entertainment IPs, charities, and broadcasters.
- Website: aardman.com
- Phone: +44 117 984 8485
- Address: The Georgian House, 1 Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol BS1 6UN, United Kingdom
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“There’s a reason they’re a national treasure. Every project is full of warmth, wit, and wonder.” – Ellie R., Children’s Content Manager
5. Animade – “Joyfully Thoughtful Motion Design”
Animade is a digital-first studio known for playful, minimal animation with purpose. Their work for Dropbox, Airbnb, and Facebook shows how simplicity, when executed brilliantly, creates lasting impact.
Specialty Highlight – Clean, Strategic Motion Graphics
They use humour, clarity, and design thinking to make animation that works for modern brands.
Ideal Use Clients
Tech startups, SaaS companies, branding agencies, mobile-first businesses.
- Website: animade.tv
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7336 7645
- Email: hello@animade.tv
- Location: 10-18 Vestry St, London N1 7RE, UK
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“Modern, intuitive, and clever. They turn complex ideas into animations people want to watch twice.” – Jake H., Startup Co-Founder
6. Jelly London – “Bold Visuals with a Commercial Edge”
Jelly combines top-tier illustration with smart animation for brands like Spotify, Google, and HSBC. Their visual identity is loud, graphic, and impossible to ignore.
Specialty Highlight – Illustration-Driven Animation
Perfect for brands that want slick, high-impact animation that feels fresh and fashion-forward.
Ideal Use Clients
Ad agencies, luxury brands, fashion and beauty, tech.
- Website: jellylondon.com/uk
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7323 3307
- Address: 9-10 Great Sutton St, London EC1V 0BX, UK
- Email: hello@jellylondon.com
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“They combine elegance with bold creativity. Our brand visuals finally have personality.” – Mia S., Creative Director, Fashion Brand
7. Studio AKA – “Elegant Animation with a Storytelling Soul”
Studio AKA is known for its delicate visual language and character-led narratives. Their work for Lloyds Bank, BBC, and Netflix proves that minimalism can be deeply moving.
Specialty Highlight – Character & Design-Led Animation
Their style is refined, emotionally intelligent, and highly adaptable for both ads and film.
Ideal Use Clients
Finance, healthcare, corporate storytelling, animated short films.
- Website: studioaka.co.uk
- Phone: +44 (0) 207 490 7228
- Address: 56 Compton St, London EC1V 0ET, UK
- Email: hello@studioaka.co.uk
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“There’s elegance in every frame. Studio AKA just gets how to bring emotion into animation.” – Daniel W., Brand Strategist
8. Cub Studio – “Playful Motion with a Punch”
Cub Studio brings clean, energetic 2D animations with a humorous edge. They’ve worked with Twitter, UFC, and Formula E, making complex subjects accessible and entertaining.
Specialty Highlight – Sports & Business Explainer Animation
Masters at turning data, news, or sports coverage into engaging animated stories.
Ideal Use Clients
Sports media, news publishers, business startups, explainer content.
- Website: cubstudio.com
- Phone: +44 20 7729 3612
- Email: hello@cubstudio.com
- Location: 4-5 Gloucester Street, Brighton, United Kingdom
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“They brought humour and clarity to a dry topic exactly what we needed.” – Alex F., Content Marketing Lead
9. Blue Zoo Animation – “Award-Winning Family Animation Studio”
Blue Zoo creates heartwarming content for kids and families, with clients like Nickelodeon, Disney, and Netflix. They’re BAFTA winners, pushing CGI and children’s storytelling to new heights.
Specialty Highlight – Children’s CGI and Series Animation
Everything from animated TV pilots to branded kids’ content with high production values.
Ideal Use Clients
Children’s TV networks, educational publishers, toy brands, entertainment IPs.
- Website: blue-zoo.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7434 4111
- Address: 10 Parkway, London NW1 7AA, United Kingdom
- Email: info@blue-zoo.co.uk
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“Top-tier quality, but also heart. Kids love their characters and so do the parents!” – Priya M., Content Buyer
10. Feed Me Light – “Vibrant Animation for Modern Brands”
Feed Me Light creates bold, energetic animation for brands looking to stand out. They’ve worked with Ford, Samsung, and KFC always delivering vibrant, character-driven stories.
Specialty Highlight – Energetic Brand Animation
From pitch-perfect characters to animated ads that demand attention, their work pops off the screen.
Ideal Use Clients
Creative agencies, product launches, advertising campaigns, global brands.
- Website: feedmelight.com
- Phone: +44(0)2081292161
- Address: 19-23 Kingsland Rd, London E2 8AA, United Kingdom
- Email: info@feedmelight.com
Review (★ ★ ★ ★ ★)
“They brought our brand to life with colour, energy, and humour it was exactly what we needed.” – Joanna B., Head of Brand
Conclusion
London continues to stand at the forefront of the global animation industry. From legacy studios to next-gen innovators, the city is packed with animation companies that not only bring ideas to life but also shape how stories are told in today’s digital age.
Whether you need a short brand film, a children’s series, or a bold campaign visual, animation companies in London offer a unique blend of creativity, professionalism, and cultural relevance. With access to top-tier talent, cutting-edge tools, and creative communities across Soho, Shoreditch, and Camden, choosing local means choosing excellence.
If you’re a business, startup, or content creator based in the UK or even abroad this list is a powerful starting point. Take your time, explore their work, and find the perfect animation partner to bring your message to motion.
FAQs About Animation Companies in London
What makes London a good location for animation companies?
London offers a unique mix of creative culture, access to global clients, and a large pool of animation talent from world-class universities and studios. This makes it a thriving ecosystem for both emerging and established animation companies.
Can I hire a London animation studio if I’m outside the UK?
Yes. Most animation companies in London are fully equipped to handle international projects and collaborate remotely via Zoom, Frame.io, and cloud-based review platforms.
How do I choose the right animation company in London for my project?
Start by defining your goals, reviewing studio portfolios, and checking for a clear production process. Ensure the studio’s animation style aligns with your brand and that communication is professional and responsive.
Are there affordable animation companies in London for small businesses?
Definitely. While some top-tier studios serve global brands, many mid-sized agencies and boutique studios in London offer flexible packages suitable for startups and small businesses.
What industries do animation companies in London typically work with?
Animation companies in London work across industries like advertising, education, entertainment, healthcare, tech, finance, and non-profits. Their versatility makes them ideal for any business with a story to tell.
Do London studios offer both 2D and 3D animation services?
Yes. Most top studios in London offer a mix of 2D animation, 3D modelling and rendering, character animation, motion graphics, and even visual effects (VFX) for film and television.
How long does it take to produce an animated video in London?
Project timelines vary based on complexity, but a 60-second animated explainer typically takes 3–5 weeks. High-end or 3D-heavy projects may require 6–10 weeks or more.