“You have entered The Circle. Everything is now digital.” This iconic tagline from Netflix’s popular reality show, “The Circle,” perfectly encapsulates the show’s premise. Contestants are isolated in separate apartments and compete in a social media-driven popularity contest. The virtual interactions are central to the show, but the question many fans ask is: Where Is The Circle Filmed?
While “The Circle” constructs a futuristic, online universe on screen, the actual filming locations are grounded in reality, offering a stark contrast to the digital world portrayed. This guide will reveal the filming locations behind “The Circle,” giving you a glimpse into where the online drama unfolds in the real world.
The Circle: Behind the Screen of a Social Media Game
cars driving over bridge leading to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in London, England
“London cityscape featuring cars traversing a bridge with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in the background, indicative of the show’s initial UK filming location.”
“The Circle” isolates its participants within individual apartments within a single building. Their sole means of communication with each other and the outside world is a bespoke social media platform. This platform allows them to create profiles, engage in chats, form alliances, and strategically curate their online personas. The show thrives on the tension between genuine connection and calculated manipulation in the digital sphere.
The choice of filming location is crucial to the immersive experience of “The Circle.” Producers meticulously select and transform these locations to convincingly create the illusion of a fully digital environment. Let’s explore the primary filming locations that have served as the backdrop for this social experiment.
Adelphi Wharf Phase One, Salford, Manchester, England: The Original Circle Apartment Building
Photo Courtesy of Leisure Group Travel
“Exterior view of Adelphi Wharf Phase One in Salford, Manchester, UK, showcasing the modern apartment complex that served as the filming location for the first five seasons of The Circle.”
Key Seasons: Seasons 1 through 5 of “The Circle” were filmed entirely at Adelphi Wharf Phase One. This location housed all contestant apartments, communal areas, and the iconic exterior shots revealed throughout the series.
Visiting Manchester: Manchester enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year. For pleasant weather ideal for city exploration, consider visiting during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November).
Getting There: Manchester is easily accessible internationally via Manchester Airport (MAN). Adelphi Wharf Phase One is conveniently reached from the city center by public transportation or taxi.
Adelphi Wharf Phase One, a modern luxury apartment complex in Salford, Manchester, England, provided the physical setting for “The Circle’s” virtual world for its initial seasons. This easily accessible location in Manchester was transformed by the production team into a vibrant social media hub. Each apartment was uniquely decorated to reflect the personality of its occupant, enhancing the show’s visual storytelling. While access to the interior apartments is restricted to the public, spotting the building’s recognizable exterior during the show’s opening and exterior shots offers fans a tangible connection to the series.
Manchester itself is a dynamic city rich in history, culture, and renowned for its music scene. For fans of “The Circle,” exploring Manchester adds an extra layer of interest to their viewing experience.
Things to Experience in Manchester:
- National Football Museum: Delve into England’s rich football history at this comprehensive museum.
- Northern Quarter Exploration: Wander through Manchester’s trendy Northern Quarter, known for its independent boutiques, cafes, and vibrant street art.
- Manchester Arena: Catch a show at one of the UK’s largest indoor music venues, hosting major international artists.
- The Pilcrow Pub: Experience a traditional Victorian-era pub with a historical ambiance.
- Neighbourhood Restaurant: Indulge in modern British cuisine at this acclaimed restaurant.
Accommodation in Manchester: Manchester offers a diverse range of hotels. For proximity to the filming location, consider staying in the Salford Quays area. Alternatively, Manchester city center provides a wider selection of hotels and puts you in the heart of the city’s attractions.
Sonder Midtown South, Atlanta, Georgia, USA: The Circle Goes Stateside
Savannah, Georgia
“Scenic view of Savannah, Georgia, USA, highlighting the state’s beauty and serving as a visual representation of the new filming location for The Circle Season 6 in Atlanta.”
While seasons 1-5 of “The Circle” established its social media world within Adelphi Wharf Phase One in Manchester, Season 6 introduced a significant change. The producers relocated the show across the Atlantic to a brand new filming location in the United States.
For the sixth season of “The Circle,” production moved to apartments within the Sonder Midtown South building in Atlanta. Sonder Midtown South operates similarly to a hotel, offering apartment-style accommodations for flexible stays, from short overnight visits to extended monthly rentals. However, it’s important for fans to note that the actual ambiance of Sonder Midtown South may differ from the vibrant, colorful environment seen on television. For filming, the apartments, building facade, and communal spaces underwent a significant and colorful transformation to align with the show’s aesthetic.
Key Scenes: Similar to the Manchester location, Sonder Midtown South housed contestant apartments, communal spaces, and the building’s exterior for dramatic reveals in Season 6.
Visiting Georgia: Georgia experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The most comfortable times to visit Georgia are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), offering pleasant weather for exploring the state.
Getting There: Georgia is well-served by a comprehensive transportation network. Major airports include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) in Atlanta and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). Depending on your exploration plans within Georgia, car rentals or ride-sharing services may be necessary for convenient travel.
Georgia offers a blend of Southern charm, rich historical significance, and breathtaking natural landscapes. For “Circle” enthusiasts venturing beyond the filming location, Georgia presents numerous attractions.
Things to Experience in Georgia:
- City Exploration: Discover the unique urban landscapes of Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta, each offering distinct cultural experiences, museums, and historical landmarks.
- Civil War History: Immerse yourself in American Civil War history by visiting battlefields and historic plantations throughout the state.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hike through the scenic Appalachian Mountains in northern Georgia or explore the beautiful barrier islands along the Georgia coastline.
Dining in Georgia: Georgia is a culinary haven for Southern cuisine. Indulge in local favorites such as fried chicken, biscuits, and peach cobbler, alongside a diverse range of international dining options.
Accommodation in Georgia: Georgia provides a wide array of lodging choices, ranging from luxury hotels in major cities to charming bed and breakfasts in historic towns, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.
The Location as a Character
The filming location for “The Circle” is more than just a backdrop; it becomes an integral part of the show’s narrative. Consider how each location subtly reflects the themes of the story. Does the architecture hint at the contestants’ diverse backgrounds as they enter the game? Does the setting itself contribute to the sense of mystery and excitement inherent in the social media competition? Visiting these locations allows fans to further immerse themselves in the world of “The Circle” and appreciate the real-world settings that bring the digital drama to life.
