Find the Filming Locations of Broadchurch on Your Dorset Holiday
In 2013, viewers around the world were captivated by the mystery facing DI Alec Hardy and DS Ellie Miller detectives in the fictional town of Broadchurch, starring David Tennant and Olivia Coleman. Many of the heart-achingly beautiful landscapes of Dorset served as the backdrop to the arresting story. If you find yourself on a short break in Dorset, drop by some of these unmissable filming locations.
Jurassic Coast Inspiration
“Broadchurch†doesn’t exist – rather the town was comprised of scenes filmed in West Bay. Scriptwriter Chris Chibnall fell in love with the nearby seaside town Bridport on a short break in Dorset and decided to relocate from hectic London. He cites the dramatic vistas and greenery of the Jurassic Coast as an inspiration for his work as a writer; the idea for Broadchurch had been percolated in his mind for almost 10 years after his visit.
Chibnall has been quoted saying that the series was in part a love letter to the Jurassic Coast, and viewers were undeniably moved by the chilling winter landscapes.
The Harbour Town of West Bay
In the series, the tranquillity of a close-knit community is ruptured by a violent act, but luckily the town it is based upon is much calm and cosier. Exploring West Bay makes for a fun day to scout out some of the more recognisable locations.
Walk up to the top of West Cliff for unbeatable vistas back across the harbour. Harbour Cliff Beach was the iconic image of the series: the dramatic sandstone cliffs towered above in many of the scenes, adding to the ominous mood. Head out along either Jurassic Pier or East Pier for stunning views of the coastline at sea level. Further inland, DI Hardy’s riverside house sits at the mouth of the river from where you can see out to the harbour amongst the backdrop of luscious meadows.
Further Afield
Those with a little more time to explore might want to head out and see some of the filming locations elsewhere in the area. The desolate Briar Cliff Hut at Eype was the setting for one of the series’ most harrowing moments. Though you can’t get right up close as it is private land, it’s definitely worth walking to for incredible views across the Jurassic Coast.
Just west of West Bay is the beautiful Charmouth Beach. The iconic blue beach huts featured in series 2, and the real-life beach is a nice quiet spot for relaxing. You can also check out the desolate hut at Puncknowle, and the Hooke bluebell woods near Beaminster, both of which were used in the filming of the second series.
The Jurassic Coast is one of the most enchanting places is England, and I was not surprised at all to hear that the region saw a surge in tourist numbers after the series was released. Visiting these iconic sites from Broadchurch is just one of many reasons to hope on a train for a short break in Dorset.
Michael Paul is the Managing Director of Michael Paul Holidays, a holiday property agency offering a handpicked range of accommodation in wonderful UK locations. Whether you are looking for family getaways, romantic escapes or ideas for a short break in Dorset, Michael and his team will find you that perfect property for an unforgettable trip.
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