Penarth has taken the spotlight once again, this time as one of the UK’s most-loved filming locations. New research by TV and entertainment experts OLBG has placed the seaside town 19th in the UK, celebrating Penarth’s growing reputation as a star of the screen.

The study reveals that shows filmed here score an impressive 8.2 on IMDb, with glowing ratings from critics (98%) and audiences (94%) alike. Interest is booming too. Online searches for Penarth filming locations have jumped by 146% in the past year, as more and more people want to step into the scenes they’ve seen on screen, helping the town’s visitor economy in turn.

In recent years, the Vale of Glamorgan has regularly been used for the filming of several top TV shows and films. And, it’s no wonder. Penarth’s pier, seafront and leafy parks have become a familiar backdrop for TV favourites including Doctor Who, Torchwood, Casualty, Sex Education and the much-loved Gavin and Stacey. More recently, the town welcomed stars Timothy Spall and Gwyneth Keyworth during filming for the upcoming drama Death Valley, which saw the town buzzing with excitement.

Jake Ashton, Senior News Editor at OLBG, explained:

“TV shows have a unique way of bringing places to life, turning ordinary towns and cities into iconic settings that fans are eager to visit. Our report highlights how locations like Penarth have captured the imagination of audiences and become hotspots for TV tourists.”

A perfect day out for TV fans

For those inspired to follow in the footsteps of their favourite characters, Penarth offers the perfect mix of seaside charm and screen-worthy scenery. Here’s how a TV tourism day in the town might look:

• Stroll the pier: As seen in countless productions, Penarth Pier is picture-perfect, the ideal spot to begin your visit with sweeping views across the Bristol Channel.
• Café culture: From stylish cafés to family-run tearooms, the town centre is full of places to refuel.
• Parks and promenades: Alexandra Park offer peaceful green escapes, while the clifftop path gives dramatic coastal backdrops.
• Dinner with a view: Round off the day with fresh, local food at one of Penarth’s many independent restaurants.

Wales’ shining star

Although Dudley in the West Midlands topped the overall ranking, Penarth was the only Welsh location to make the top 20 – reinforcing what locals already know: our town is not just a beautiful place to live, but a must-visit destination that continues to capture imaginations on screen and off.