Unveiling the Bristol Backdrop: The Filming Locations of The Outlaws

The Outlaws, the acclaimed BBC/Amazon Prime Video comedy-drama, is filmed almost entirely in Bristol, England. The show masterfully utilizes various locations throughout the city, from the iconic Suspension Bridge to the gritty streets of East Street, Bedminster, creating a believable and vibrant setting for its ensemble cast of characters. The production team purposefully chose Bristol to reflect the diverse social landscape of the UK and give the series a distinct and authentic visual identity.

Exploring the Key Filming Locations of The Outlaws

The brilliance of The Outlaws lies not only in its witty script and stellar performances, but also in its evocative portrayal of Bristol. Let’s delve into some of the most recognizable filming locations that brought the series to life.

The Community Payback Headquarters: Former Probation Office

A cornerstone of the series, the community payback headquarters, is actually the former probation office at 1 College Place, Bristol. This building, with its imposing facade and central location, serves as the primary meeting point for the outlaws, a place of both forced camaraderie and unexpected connections. Its slightly dilapidated appearance perfectly mirrors the characters’ own struggles and imperfections.

The Paintworks: Industrial Chic Meets Artistic Hub

The vibrant and multifaceted Paintworks, located on Bath Road, Bristol, features prominently in The Outlaws. This former paint factory, now a thriving creative quarter, provides a backdrop for scenes involving business dealings, clandestine meetings, and moments of reflection for some of the characters. The juxtaposition of industrial architecture and contemporary art adds a unique visual texture to the show.

The Gothic Splendor of Ashton Court Estate

For scenes requiring grander settings, The Outlaws often turns to Ashton Court Estate. This sprawling estate, just outside of Bristol, features a magnificent mansion, acres of parkland, and stunning views of the city. It has served as the location for parties, formal gatherings, and moments of both high drama and understated humor.

East Street, Bedminster: Gritty Urban Realism

In contrast to the opulent settings of Ashton Court, East Street in Bedminster provides a dose of gritty urban realism. This bustling street, with its independent shops, diverse community, and vibrant street art, is where Myrna’s activist spirit shines. It is a deliberate choice to showcase the less polished side of Bristol and ground the narrative in a relatable environment.

Clifton Suspension Bridge: An Iconic Landmark

No portrayal of Bristol would be complete without the Clifton Suspension Bridge. This iconic landmark, a symbol of the city, features in several scenes throughout The Outlaws, often in establishing shots that give viewers a sense of place and scale. Its presence is a constant reminder of the beauty and architectural grandeur of Bristol.

Various Bristol Streets and Neighbourhoods

Beyond these key locations, The Outlaws utilizes numerous other streets and neighborhoods throughout Bristol. From the harbourside to residential areas, the production team sought to capture the diverse character of the city in all its complexity. This commitment to authenticity adds depth and resonance to the series, making it feel genuinely rooted in its setting.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions About The Outlaws Filming Locations Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming of The Outlaws, providing even more insights into the locations and production:

1. Was the entire series filmed in Bristol? Yes, virtually the entire series was filmed in and around Bristol, England. This commitment to a single location helps create a cohesive and believable world for the characters to inhabit.

2. Are the locations used in the show easily accessible to the public? Many of the exterior locations, such as East Street and the Clifton Suspension Bridge, are publicly accessible. However, some interior locations, like the former probation office, may not be open to the public or may require special permission to visit. The Paintworks is accessible as a creative space and for events.

3. Did the filming of The Outlaws have any impact on Bristol residents? As with any large-scale production, filming did cause some disruption to local residents, primarily in the form of road closures and parking restrictions. However, the production team worked closely with the local council to minimize the impact and maintain good relations with the community.

4. Why was Bristol chosen as the primary filming location? Bristol was chosen for its diverse architecture, stunning landscapes, and status as a vibrant cultural hub. The city’s mix of historical landmarks and modern developments provided the perfect backdrop for the series’ themes of social inequality and redemption. Furthermore, it is where Stephen Merchant grew up, so he was very familiar with the area.

5. Were any parts of the show filmed outside of Bristol? While the vast majority of filming took place in Bristol, it’s possible that some minor scenes were filmed in the surrounding areas of Somerset or Gloucestershire. However, the primary focus remained firmly on Bristol.

6. How did the production team find the specific locations used in the show? The location scouting team likely spent months exploring Bristol, searching for locations that matched the script’s requirements and the overall aesthetic of the series. They would have worked closely with the director and production designer to identify suitable places.

7. Did the cast and crew enjoy filming in Bristol? By all accounts, the cast and crew thoroughly enjoyed filming in Bristol. The city has a thriving film and television industry, and the local residents were generally welcoming and supportive of the production.

8. Is there a “The Outlaws” filming location tour available? While there isn’t an officially sanctioned “The Outlaws” tour, fans can easily create their own self-guided tour of the key filming locations using information available online. Start with the community payback building, then head to Ashton Court.

9. Has the show boosted tourism to Bristol? It’s likely that The Outlaws has had a positive impact on tourism to Bristol, as fans of the show may be inspired to visit the city and see the filming locations for themselves. Bristol has actively been promoting itself as a film-friendly destination for many years.

10. Are any other well-known TV shows or films filmed in Bristol? Yes, Bristol is a popular filming location for many TV shows and films, including Poldark, Broadchurch, Sherlock, and Doctor Who. The city’s diverse architecture and scenic surroundings make it an attractive option for filmmakers.

11. Where can I find more information about the specific filming locations used in The Outlaws? Online resources such as movie-locations.com and various fan forums dedicated to The Outlaws offer more detailed information about specific filming locations. You can also search online for articles and blog posts about the show’s production.

12. Will the future seasons of The Outlaws also be filmed in Bristol? Given the success of the first two seasons and the integral role that Bristol plays in the show’s identity, it’s highly probable that any future seasons of The Outlaws will also be filmed in the city. Bristol has become synonymous with the series.