As Adrian Dunbar returns to our screens for the highly anticipated second series of Ridley, viewers across the UK are once again captivated by the show’s atmospheric backdrop. The question of where is Ridley filmed has become increasingly popular among fans who recognise the stunning northern landscapes that frame each gripping investigation. Set against the windswept beauty of Lancashire and Yorkshire, this ITV crime drama showcases some of England’s most dramatic scenery, from rolling moorlands to historic Victorian architecture that serves as the perfect canvas for Dunbar’s latest detective role.
The Heart of Lancashire: Ridley’s Primary Setting
When exploring where is Ridley filmed, Lancashire emerges as the series’ primary location, providing the majority of those instantly recognisable rural backdrops. The production team deliberately chose the Rossendale area for its distinctive windswept appearance, which perfectly reflects the isolation and psychological depth of Dunbar’s character. Filming took place across this region for five months during winter, creating the show’s signature autumnal atmosphere that has become integral to its identity.
The challenging winter conditions weren’t just aesthetic choices but became fundamental to the series’ tone. Series co-creator Jonathan Fisher explained that the cold, bleak conditions elevated the drama, with darkness falling by half past three each day. This atmospheric filming schedule resulted in the distinctive mood that sets Ridley apart from other crime dramas.
Lancashire’s appeal extends beyond just weather conditions. The region’s varied terrain, from expansive moorlands to historic mill towns, provides an ever-changing backdrop that keeps viewers engaged. The proud Northern grit that characterises the area, as described by co-creator Paul Matthew Thompson, perfectly complements the reserved yet passionate nature of the local characters portrayed in the series.
Bolton’s Victorian Splendour Takes Centre Stage
A crucial element in understanding where is Ridley filmed involves recognising Bolton’s significant contribution to the series’ visual appeal. Le Mans Crescent in Bolton serves as the police station headquarters, with its stunning Victorian architecture providing an impressive backdrop for key investigative scenes. This iconic location has become so synonymous with the series that locals now refer to Bolton as part of the “Hollywood of the North”.
The significance of Bolton extends beyond a single building. Cheapside and Mawdsley Street have featured prominently throughout both series, with entire streets closed to accommodate filming. These locations showcase Bolton’s remarkable architecture to millions of viewers, highlighting the town’s rich Victorian heritage whilst serving the drama’s narrative needs.
Recent filming for the second series saw crews return to familiar Bolton locations, including the courthouse scenes that required extras dressed as barristers. The consistency in using these locations helps maintain the show’s visual identity whilst offering new perspectives on familiar architectural gems.
Yorkshire’s Dramatic Landscapes Complete the Picture
The answer to where is Ridley filmed wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging Yorkshire’s substantial contribution to the series’ visual impact. The Yorkshire Dales and Pennine moors feature extensively, providing the bleak beauty that the show’s creators specifically sought. These locations offer the sense of isolation that series co-creator Jonathan Fisher believes essential to the show’s atmosphere.
The Todmorden Wind Farm, positioned strategically on the Lancashire-Yorkshire border, provides one of the series’ most recognisable backdrops. These towering windmills create an almost alien landscape that adds visual drama to outdoor scenes whilst emphasising the wild, untamed nature of the northern English countryside.
Yorkshire’s canals have also played a significant role, with the Todmorden canal appearing in multiple episodes. These waterways provide both scenic beauty and narrative opportunities, connecting the industrial heritage of the region with contemporary crime stories.
The Fictional Town of Framley
An intriguing aspect of where is Ridley filmed concerns the fictional town of Framley, which serves as the setting for many key scenes. Mossley, located on the outskirts of Greater Manchester, doubles as this fictional location. Producer Juliet Charlsworth specifically chose Mossley because it perfectly fits the show’s aesthetic requirements.
Recent filming in Mossley has utilised various locations, including Moorlands Road, Moorlands Drive, and Alphin Close on the Hey Farm estate. The New Bridge Inn and local businesses have also served as filming locations, bringing economic benefits to the area whilst maintaining the authentic Northern English atmosphere the series requires.
The transformation of Mossley into Framley demonstrates the production team’s attention to detail in creating believable settings. By using existing locations and adapting them to fit the narrative, the series maintains authenticity whilst telling fictional stories.
Waterside Locations Provide Tranquil Contrast
Understanding where is Ridley filmed requires appreciating the variety of landscapes used throughout the series. Ridley’s lakeside home provides a peaceful contrast to the dramatic crime scenes, located at Watergrove Reservoir near Wardle, Rochdale. This location serves as the character’s retreat, offering moments of calm reflection between intense investigations.
Hollingworth Lake in Wardle Village also features prominently, providing serene water scenes that balance the show’s darker elements. These waterside settings reinforce the show’s connection to the industrial heritage of the region whilst offering visual respite from more intense dramatic moments.
The windsurfing clubhouse at Watergrove Reservoir doubles as Ridley’s home, creating an authentic connection between the character and his environment. This choice reinforces the series’ commitment to using genuine locations rather than constructed sets.
Expanding Horizons in Series Two
With Ridley’s second series now airing, the question of where is Ridley filmed takes on new relevance as production has expanded its geographical scope. Filming has continued across Northern England, with additional scenes shot in Derbyshire, extending the show’s reach further south whilst maintaining its Northern identity.
The Halifax Courier reported that filming for the second series included locations around Todmorden, confirming the production team’s commitment to this distinctive border region. This consistency in location choices helps maintain the show’s visual identity whilst offering new perspectives on familiar landscapes.
Ashton town centre also featured in second series filming, with Market Avenue serving as the backdrop for dramatic robbery scenes. The transformation of Argenti Jewellers into Bentham’s jewellers for the production demonstrates the detailed preparation required for each filming location.
The enduring appeal of these Northern England locations ensures that Ridley remains firmly rooted in authentic British landscapes. As viewers continue to enjoy Adrian Dunbar’s compelling performance, the stunning backdrops of Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Greater Manchester will undoubtedly continue to play their vital supporting role in this exceptional crime drama.
Read More: Bridget Fonda Shows Off Major Transformation in Rare Outing
