Bristol has been a hub of creativity for most of its modern life. Here are some of the most iconic TV shows that have been filmed in Bristol.
Dr Who
In 2023, Bristol was the central filming location for the iconic 60th Anniversary/Christmas celebration episode. David Tennant and Catherine Tate reprised their roles and passed the baton to Ncuti Gatwa. The filming was mainly confined to the Old City, but Bristol and Dr Who have had a long and fruitful relationship, with many episodes and scenes being filmed here from as far back as the 1970s.
Outlaws
Written and produced by Bristol’s own Stephen Merchant, Outlaws was filmed almost exclusively in Bristol. Many of the city’s most iconic landmarks served as the backdrop for the show. Our very own Washington Guesthouse was used as a filming location, as was the Berkeley Square, so this show holds a special place in our hearts.
Rivals
Also starring David Tennant (he must be a fan of Bristol by now!), Rivals was filmed in and around the city, as well as at Bottleyard Studios. Aerospace Bristol allowed the crew to film the interior of their legendary Concorde, bringing the plane to life for modern audiences. They also filmed a red carpet scene on Corn Street, contributing to the Victorian grandeur of the location.
Skins
Skins is arguably the most iconic piece of media filmed in Bristol. The city feels like a character in its own right. The legendary bench in the show (on Brandon Hill) is one that tourists still flock to, taking pictures and posing with it. The entire show was filmed in Bristol, so Skins and Bristol are essentially inseparable.