Bristol might be best known for its maritime history and colourful street art, but did you know it’s also a favourite filming location for some of the UK’s best-loved television shows and movies? From gritty teen dramas to supernatural thrillers and Victorian mysteries, the city has provided the backdrop to many iconic scenes. If you’re planning a visit and staying in serviced apartments in Bristol, why not explore the cinematic side of the city?

In this blog, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of filming locations around Bristol you can easily visit. We’ll highlight famous spots used in shows like Skins, His Dark Materials, The Outlaws, and Sherlock, giving you inspiration for your next city break adventure.

Skins – From College Green to Clifton

Channel 4’s cult hit Skins was set and filmed largely in Bristol, making it one of the most recognisable backdrops for fans. The show captured teenage life in a raw and energetic way, and the city’s mix of classic and modern scenery was central to its unique look. 

• College Green and Park Street featured heavily as hangout spots
• The colourful houses of Clifton provided a striking visual contrast to the series’ gritty themes
• Gloucester Road and the Harbourside pop up in many scenes
• If you watched Skins, you’ll enjoy retracing the characters’ steps around Bristol’s most vibrant neighborhoods. It’s a chance to relive key moments and soak up the energy of the places where they unfolded.

His Dark Materials – A Bridge Between Worlds

The hit BBC adaptation of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials made great use of Bristol’s stunning architecture. The most iconic location is undoubtedly the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which appears as a magical gateway in several episodes.

Fans of the series can stroll across the bridge and explore the nearby Downs and Avon Gorge – a setting that feels every bit as epic in person as it does on screen.

This combination of natural beauty and man-made design creates a dreamlike quality that worked perfectly for the show’s otherworldly themes.

The Outlaws – Crime and Comedy in the City

Stephen Merchant’s The Outlaws is not only set in Bristol but celebrates the city’s character in every frame. Filming took place across a variety of well-known locations, giving viewers a genuine taste of local life. 

• Stokes Croft – known for street art and alternative culture
• Bedminster – with its blend of residential streets and independent shops
• The Bearpit – a unique urban space in central Bristol

This series shines a light on Bristol’s grit and charm, offering a fresh perspective for those familiar with the area – and a great starting point for first-time visitors.

Sherlock: The Abominable Bride – Gothic at the Cathedral

While Sherlock is famously associated with London, the special episode The Abominable Bride made excellent use of Bristol Cathedral to portray Victorian England. The cathedral’s grand Gothic architecture created the perfect eerie atmosphere for this dark and twisted tale.

The Cathedral is open to visitors and well worth seeing in person, whether you’re a fan of the series or simply appreciate striking historical landmarks.

Being Human – Supernatural Streets

The first three series of Being Human were mostly shot in Totterdown and Bedminster. These neighbourhoods served as the fictional home of a vampire, a werewolf, and a ghost attempting to live ordinary lives.

With its colourful terraced houses and steep hills, Totterdown in particular has a distinctive charm. Fans can enjoy walking the same streets where the show’s most memorable scenes were filmed. 

Only Fools and Horses – Del Boy’s Day Out

While most associate Only Fools and Horses with Peckham, many of its scenes were actually filmed in Bristol. So strong is the fan interest that guided walking tours now run every Saturday, taking visitors to key filming locations from the show.

These tours are in such high demand that more dates are constantly being added. It’s a must-do for long-time fans who want to see the real places behind the laughs.

Broadchurch – Crime Drama Comes to Bristol

Although best known for its dramatic coastal setting, Broadchurch also filmed key scenes in Bristol, particularly courtroom sequences and select urban interiors.

This underlines just how flexible and film-friendly the city is, with its variety of locations adding depth and texture to every production.

There’s something magical about seeing familiar places through a cinematic lens – and Bristol offers plenty of chances to do just that. Whether you’re here for a short break or a longer stay, discovering these filming locations adds a whole new layer to your visit.

Staying at PREMIER SUITES Bristol Cabot Circus means you’re perfectly placed to explore these sites. With spacious accommodation and all the comforts of home, it’s a great base for film and TV lovers looking to see the city in a new light.

Book your stay today and discover the real-life settings behind some of your favourite shows.