ITV Thriller Playing Nice Puts Cornwall Coast Back in Spotlight
The Local Backdrops Stealing the Spotlight
Local TV screens are set to light up once again with some very familiar coastal backdrops this weekend, as the smash-hit ITV thriller Playing Nice returns to our screens. Starring James Norton and Niamh Algar, the gripping four-part drama initially captivated the nation when it debuted earlier this year, and its late-night repeat on ITV3 this Sunday (April 26) at 11.50pm offers another chance to spot our stunning home turf on prime-time television. While the nail-biting plot follows two families who discover their toddlers were switched at birth, for Cornwall residents, the real star of the show is the landscape. Filmed extensively across our north coast in late 2023, the production made brilliant use of iconic spots like St Ives, Padstow, and the sweeping cliffs of Park Head. Crucially, the breathtaking Mawgan Porth beach serves as a dramatic setting for the unfolding tension. Located just a short drive from Newquay’s world-famous Fistral Beach, this stretch of sand has long been a beloved spot for local dog walkers and families alike. Seeing these familiar, rugged cliffs framed through a cinematic lens brings a sense of pride to our tight-knit coastal communities.
Boost for Local Businesses and Hospitality
The return of Playing Nice to television screens is more than just a proud moment for local viewers; it represents a significant economic boost for our community's independent businesses. When major production crews descend upon Cornwall during the quieter autumn months, they rely heavily on our local infrastructure. From catering companies supplying hot meals on chilly beach shoots to local guesthouses providing warm beds, the financial ripple effect is substantial. Local hoteliers and holiday let owners are already preparing for a surge in screen tourism. Many visitors who watch the drama will want to book their own Cornish getaway and go to Newquay to experience these breathtaking coastlines firsthand. Our local hospitality sector thrives on this interest, with many establishments highlighting their dog friendly accommodation to appeal to travelers who refuse to leave their four-legged companions behind. Businesses in Padstow and St Ives have reported increased footfall from fans eager to walk in the footsteps of characters Pete and Maddie Riley. For our local traders, this high-profile exposure keeps Cornwall at the forefront of holidaymakers' minds, helping to sustain our unique economy well beyond the busy summer months.
What Residents Need to Know and Watch Next
As Playing Nice re-airs, local residents have a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our region's growing reputation as a world-class filming destination. While the first two episodes air on ITV3 this Sunday night, the full series remains available on ITVX for those who want to binge-watch the drama. This resurgence in national attention reminds us of the delicate balance we must maintain between welcoming film crews and preserving our natural environment. As more visitors are inspired to go to Newquay and explore our dramatic headlands, local community groups are encouraging everyone to respect our coastal code. This includes checking local seasonal restrictions for having a dog on beaches and keeping our clifftop paths litter-free. Looking ahead, we can expect even more production crews to scout our unique landscape, bringing further opportunities for local creatives, extras, and hospitality providers. Keep your eyes peeled on your next coastal walk—you might just spot the next big drama being filmed right on our doorstep. Whether you are watching for the gripping storyline or just to spot your favourite local beach, this thriller is a testament to why our corner of the world is so special.
Source: ‘Edge of your seat' drama filmed in Cornwall returns to screen this weekend
