The ITV series Playing Nice has captured the attention of audiences with its gripping storylines, intriguing characters, and breathtaking settings. One of the most talked-about elements of the show is its real-world filming locations. Rather than filming in London as depicted in the book, the production chose Cornwall for its striking coastal landscapes, charming villages, and authentic public spaces. This decision gave the series a unique visual identity that has fascinated fans and inspired travel enthusiasts.
Exploring playing nice filming locations provides an opportunity to experience the locations that brought the series to life. From rugged cliffs to serene beaches and quaint streets, Cornwall’s diverse scenery allows viewers to see behind the camera and discover the places that set the mood for key scenes. For fans, visiting these locations is a chance to immerse themselves in the story while enjoying the natural beauty of the Cornish coastline.
Why Cornwall Was Chosen for Filming
Cornwall was selected as the backdrop for Playing Nice for its combination of natural beauty and authenticity. The region’s dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint fishing villages provide an atmospheric setting that enhances the series’ suspense and drama. Choosing Cornwall over London allowed the filmmakers to create a visual style that reflects the psychological tension of the story while showcasing a location rarely featured in modern television.
In addition to its natural landscapes, Cornwall offers an array of public spaces and historic sites ideal for filming. Each of the playing nice filming locations was carefully chosen to support the story and the characters’ journeys. The region’s versatility allowed directors to seamlessly transition between interior and exterior shots while maintaining a cohesive sense of place, making Cornwall an integral character in the series itself.
Key Coastal Villages in Playing Nice Filming Locations
Several coastal villages were used extensively in the series, providing authentic Cornish charm. Mawgan Porth is one of the most recognisable playing nice filming locations, known for its expansive beach used in surfing scenes and dramatic cliffside shots. The area’s natural beauty amplifies the tension of pivotal moments in the show and gives viewers a sense of Cornwall’s rugged landscape.
Mevagissey is another important village featured in the opening scenes. With its narrow, winding streets, bustling harbour, and colourful buildings, Mevagissey adds a picturesque yet realistic setting that draws viewers into the story. Porthcothan Beach also appears throughout the series, offering additional dramatic coastal backdrops. These coastal villages provide fans with iconic spots to explore and photograph when visiting Cornwall.
Restaurants and Houses in Playing Nice Filming Locations

Zacry’s Restaurant at Watergate Bay is a prominent playing nice filming locations restaurant. It served as Maddie’s workplace in the series and became a notable location for fans. Its modern seaside architecture and open interiors allowed the filmmakers to create scenes that felt authentic while highlighting the natural surroundings. Visitors to Cornwall can enjoy the restaurant and its coastal views, combining a culinary experience with a connection to the show.
Several houses also feature as playing nice filming locations house sites. Exterior shots of these properties provide realistic domestic settings that enhance the story. While many houses remain private, fans can often admire them from public roads or nearby viewpoints. These locations demonstrate how the production blends architectural design with natural scenery to create visually engaging sequences for television.
Public Spaces and Interior Filming Locations
Jubilee Pool in Penzance, a unique geothermal lido, was used for a tense scene between key characters. This spot has become one of the most recognisable playing nice filming locations, as it combines public accessibility with cinematic appeal. Similarly, Tate St Ives was used for a charity gala scene, offering dramatic ocean views and a modern artistic setting. These locations show how public spaces can be used effectively in storytelling.
Truro and Penwith College in Bodmin provided the setting for the neonatal unit scenes. Its modern interiors offered authenticity while supporting emotional storylines. Other interior locations, such as galleries and community spaces, were carefully chosen to align with the narrative, making them essential elements of playing nice filming locations. Together, these spaces contribute to the immersive quality of the series.
Visiting Playing Nice Filming Locations
Fans eager to explore playing nice filming locations can plan their visit with a mix of beaches, villages, and public spaces. Cornwall is accessible throughout the year, but spring and summer provide the best weather for outdoor exploration. Visitors should plan routes carefully, as some locations are private and should be observed respectfully from public areas.
A suggested itinerary includes Mawgan Porth, Mevagissey, Porthcothan Beach, Zacry’s Restaurant, and Tate St Ives. Following this route allows fans to experience the key scenes of the series while enjoying the cultural and scenic richness of Cornwall. Visiting these spots provides a tangible connection to the series and an opportunity to appreciate the visual storytelling of the show.
Tips for Fans Exploring Playing Nice Filming Locations
Photography enthusiasts will find Cornwall ideal for capturing scenes reminiscent of the show. When visiting playing nice filming locations, it is important to respect private property and local communities. Many of the coastal and village locations provide striking visuals without the need to intrude on private spaces, allowing fans to recreate iconic moments from the series.
Fans should also consider local dining and seasonal events near the filming spots. Visiting restaurants featured in the show, attending local festivals, or exploring quaint villages adds depth to the experience. Planning a visit thoughtfully ensures that exploring playing nice filming locations is both enjoyable and respectful, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of Cornwall.
Conclusion
The choice of Cornwall as the filming region for Playing Nice has contributed significantly to the show’s visual and narrative appeal. From dramatic cliffs to charming villages and unique public spaces, every location enhances the story while offering fans the chance to experience the series in real life. Touring these playing nice filming locations provides both a deeper connection to the series and an unforgettable journey through Cornwall’s stunning landscapes.
Fans of the series will find that exploring playing nice filming locations is not only about visiting the places seen on screen but also about immersing themselves in the atmosphere, culture, and natural beauty of Cornwall. Each location tells part of the story, making a visit a truly memorable experience for enthusiasts of the ITV thriller.
FAQs
FAQ 1: Where is Playing Nice filmed?
Playing Nice was filmed entirely in Cornwall, UK, instead of the London setting from the original book. Key locations include coastal villages like Mawgan Porth and Mevagissey, beaches such as Porthcothan, public spaces like Jubilee Pool in Penzance, and cultural sites including Tate St Ives.
FAQ 2: Which restaurant was used as a filming location in Playing Nice?
Zacry’s Restaurant at Watergate Bay served as Maddie’s workplace in the series. This popular restaurant is one of the most famous playing nice filming locations restaurant spots. Fans can visit to enjoy the coastal views while connecting with the iconic scenes filmed there.
FAQ 3: Can you visit the houses shown in Playing Nice?
Some houses featured in Playing Nice were private residences. While they are important playing nice filming locations house sites, visitors should admire them from public areas. Respecting privacy ensures a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the series’ real-world settings.
FAQ 4: Are the beaches and villages in Cornwall open to the public?
Yes, most beaches and villages used in playing nice filming locations are open to the public. Places like Mawgan Porth, Porthcothan Beach, and Mevagissey are accessible year-round, allowing fans to explore the iconic landscapes and recreate scenes from the ITV series.
FAQ 5: How can fans plan a tour of Playing Nice filming locations?
Fans can plan a tour by mapping key locations such as Mawgan Porth, Mevagissey, Zacry’s Restaurant, Jubilee Pool, and Tate St Ives. Combining beaches, villages, and cultural spots creates a complete playing nice filming locations experience. It’s best to check opening times and accessibility before visiting.
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