The ITV crime drama Ridley, starring Adrian Dunbar, has captivated audiences not only with its compelling storylines but also with its stunning visual backdrop. Set in the north of England, the series utilizes the region’s diverse landscapes to create a unique and atmospheric viewing experience. Fans often ask, “Where Is Ridley Filmed?” The answer lies in the picturesque counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire, where the production team expertly captured the essence of the story.
Ridley Filming Locations: A Closer Look at Northern England
Ridley embraces location shooting, immersing viewers in the authentic environments of Northern England. Much of the filming took place in Lancashire and Yorkshire, utilizing both well-known landmarks and hidden gems. Adrian Dunbar himself expressed his delight in filming in this region, stating it was his first time working there and that he “absolutely loved working in Manchester and the surrounding areas.”
One prominent location featured in Ridley is the Todmorden Wind Farm. Straddling the border between Lancashire and Yorkshire, this modern wind farm provides a dramatic and somewhat isolated backdrop, perfectly complementing the crime drama’s tone. The wind turbines themselves become silent, imposing figures in the landscape, adding a layer of stark beauty to the scenes filmed there.
A windswept and atmospheric crime scene from ITV's Ridley, filmed on location in the dramatic landscapes of Northern England.
Waterways also play a significant role in establishing the setting of Ridley. In episode 3, a scene was filmed along a local canal, showcasing the intricate network of waterways that crisscross the region. These canals, often lined with historic buildings and lush greenery, offer a contrast to the more rugged open landscapes, adding visual variety to the series.
The town of Bolton also served as a key filming location. Specifically, Le Mans Crescent in Bolton, known for its grand architecture, was transformed into a bustling scene for Ridley. Locals were excited to witness the production, with eyewitness accounts mentioning extras dressed as barristers, suggesting legal proceedings might be central to the episode filmed there. This location highlights the blend of urban and rural settings within the series, as Bolton provides a more built-up environment compared to the open countryside.
Dunbar further commented on the appeal of filming in the north, noting the “really interesting areas” and “beautiful places” they encountered. He acknowledged the challenging winter filming conditions, describing it as “cold and bleak,” but emphasized that these very elements contribute to the overall atmosphere of Ridley, enhancing the sense of mystery and drama.
Bronagh Waugh, another star of Ridley, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the Northern setting distinguishes the series. She pointed out that the “stunning Yorkshire and Lancashire vista” creates a “very different show” compared to typical detective dramas. She described the setting as feeling like a “small village or town,” setting it apart from “gritty city dramas.” Waugh highlighted the “toughness and hardiness” associated with the North of England, balanced with the region’s renowned “wonderful warmth,” adding depth to the characters and narratives within Ridley. Even the unpredictable Northern weather, including a major flood that temporarily halted production, became an integral part of the show’s aesthetic, with Waugh joking about “epic rain, epic wind” and other elements becoming recurring motifs throughout the series.
The Setting of Ridley: Lancashire and Northern England as a Character
Beyond specific locations, the broader setting of Lancashire and Northern England is crucial to Ridley‘s identity. Unlike many crime dramas anchored in London, Ridley deliberately places itself in the North, specifically on the Yorkshire-Lancashire border. This geographical choice is not merely a backdrop but an active element shaping the show’s atmosphere and character.
Writer Paul Matthew Thompson emphasizes the “sense of isolation” inherent in this particular area. He describes the landscape as possessing a “stark, bleak beauty,” which resonates with the often serious and introspective nature of the storylines in Ridley. Thompson also highlights the importance of the local people, portraying them as “a product of the place that they grow up in.” He notes their “fierce pride” and sometimes “insular and guarded” nature, qualities that add layers to the interactions and mysteries within the series. While acknowledging the stereotype of northerners as friendly, Thompson nuances this by suggesting their warmth is coupled with a distinct regional character, different from the anonymity of larger cities.
In conclusion, the filming locations of Ridley are far more than just picturesque scenery. The diverse landscapes of Lancashire and Yorkshire, ranging from dramatic wind farms to tranquil canals and historic towns, actively contribute to the show’s atmosphere, tone, and identity. The conscious decision to set Ridley in Northern England provides a unique flavour, distinguishing it from other crime dramas and enriching the viewing experience. The next time you watch Ridley, pay close attention to the backdrop – it’s telling a story of its own.
