Find out which coastal villages, historic towns, and rugged landscapes feature in this long-running detective series.
The popular drama Vera brings the stunning landscapes of North East England to life, with its gripping mysteries set against a backdrop of picturesque coastal villages, historic towns, and dramatic scenery.
From the charming streets of Corbridge to the rugged coastline of Redcar, each location adds a unique character to the show, making the setting as compelling as the storylines. Explore the real-life places that give Vera its distinctive atmosphere.
Where is Vera filmed?
The popular ITV detective drama Vera films in a variety of settings across the north east, particularly Northumberland, where the show is set. Written by Anne Cleeves, Vera is brought to life on screen by Brenda Blethyn, who has brilliantly embodied the curmudgeonly yet compassionate detective for 13 series.
We take a look at the second star of the series – the rugged and picturesque landscape of Northumberland, which serves as a stunning backdrop for Vera’s investigations. The sweeping coastlines, dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and wild moorlands provide a moody and atmospheric setting that wonderfully complements the gritty nature of the show.
As Vera explores both rural and metropolitan crime scenes, the show makes excellent use of Northumberland’s architecture, from quaint villages and historic abbeys to industrial landscapes and urban settings.
Some key filming spots include:
Lindisfarne Island
Ever wondered where Vera’s home is? This is filmed on Lindisfarne Island – also known as Holy Island’s Snook house, on the peninsula part of the island, doubles up as her home and often detectives are seen driving across the causeway.
Vera’s iconic cottage home is also filmed here, and it played a starring role in the 2023 Christmas special episode The Rising Tide, which is set on the island.
Newcastle
Seeing Vera’s headquarters, Northumberland and City Police Station, is set in Newcastle, it’s only fitting that scenes should be filmed in this city and include shots of iconic locations, such as the Gateshead Millennium Bridge and the city’s seven bridges.
Hexham
The historic market town of Hexham doubled as the fictional Bentham in recent series 13, featuring Hexham Abbey and local cafes.
Alnmouth and Amble
These picturesque coastal villages in Northumberland serve as the fictional location of “Mardle,” where Vera Stanhope resides.
Alnmouth, with its scenic beaches and estuary, and Amble, known as ‘The Friendliest Port,’ offer charming architecture, sandy beaches, and tranquil atmospheres, providing perfect backdrops for the show’s seaside scenes.
Corbridge
This historic market town near Hadrian’s Wall is often featured in Vera for its quintessentially British atmosphere. Its quaint streets, traditional pubs, and beautiful countryside make it an ideal setting for various scenes in the series.
In 2021 a house in Corbridge featured in the episode, Vital Signs, while the Christmas special, The Rising Tide, in 2022 starting just before the village’s busy Christmas Tree Festival weekend. Businesses in the village were transformed to depict Kimmerston village: the old Lloyds Bank became a solicitor’s office, Tea and Tipple Coffee Shop was rebranded as the Bread and Olive Delicatessen, and Corbridge Garden Rooms was renamed Kimmerston Garden Rooms.
Redcar
A seaside town in North Yorkshire, Redcar is frequently featured in the series. Its dramatic seafront and the nearby South Gare breakwater provide rugged, windswept settings that enhance the show’s moody tone. In series 13, the popular chippy Chips R Russ into the fictional Simmons Fish and Chips and next doors Sprinkles into Miss Swirls.
Hadrian’s Wall
An iconic Roman landmark, Hadrian’s Wall stretches across northern England, is used in Vera to add historical depth and dramatic landscapes. The wall’s remote and rugged locations fit perfectly with the series’ atmospheric and often haunting mysteries.
Dramatic Coastal Locations
Beyond Alnmouth and Amble, Vera also features other dramatic coastal spots, such as Nose’s Point in Durham, which offers sweeping views of the North Sea and provides a sense of isolation and mystery, ideal for the show’s dark and brooding aesthetic.
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