Debuting in 2013, Broadchurch made a significant impact on British television viewers and has maintained its popularity over three series, all shot in the picturesque coastal setting it showcases.
Starring renowned British actors David Tennant and Olivia Colman, the crime drama delves into the repercussions of a tragic incident on a closely-knit community.
The stunning Dorset landscape where Broadchurch unfolds plays a crucial role in the series. The serene West Bay provided the backdrop for most of the coastal scenes, setting the tone for the show’s eerie atmosphere and becoming a recurring location tied to pivotal moments in the storyline.
Andy Buchan, known for his role as Mark Latimer in Broadchurch, expressed his admiration for Dorset, stating, “I think I would take a holiday in Dorset every 10 minutes if I could. It is a spectacular part of the world. From the scenery to the people, the whole package down there is spot on.”
The plot unfolds when the body of Danny Latimer is discovered on the beach, at the East Beach in West Bay, beneath the towering cliffs featured in the series. Various key settings in the drama, such as the café, police station, newsagents, Sea Brigade Hall, and harbour, were all situated in the wider West Bay area.
Furthermore, the caravan park, a prominent location across all series, is located nearby, along with the beach hut in Eype and Freshwater. Clevedon in North Somerset also played a significant role in filming, contributing to the overall Broadchurch setting, although the spotlight remains on the mesmerizing Dorset coastline.
West Bay boasts two exquisite beaches, East Beach known for its towering 50-meter cliffs and West Beach, a tranquil spot ideal for families seeking sheltered waters.
Visitors have praised the scenic beauty of West Bay, with one describing it as “a lovely beach to walk along” and another noting the “spectacular cliffs” that are prone to rock falls, advising caution but emphasizing its charm and safety for swimming.
Part of the renowned Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area spanning from Exmouth to Dorset offers a rich geological history, stunning views, and exceptional clifftop walks, attracting crowds of visitors seeking natural beauty.
Since the show’s inception in 2013, the region has experienced a notable increase in tourism, with over three-quarters of surveyed tourism-related businesses reporting a significant boost in customer numbers, attributed to the popularity of Broadchurch.
While RNLI lifeguards patrol West Beach during the summer months, caution is advised due to past rockfall incidents from the cliffs above, making it a potentially hazardous area for unsuspecting visitors.
After enjoying the breathtaking scenery, visitors have described West Bay as “excellent for a breath of fresh air” and highlighted the informative aspects available at the discovery center, enhancing the overall experience of exploring the golden cliffs and coastal beauty.