‘Falling’ debuted on TV last night, and ahead of its premiere, fans were eager to know where the romantic drama was filmed. Created by Jack Thorne, the writer behind the widely acclaimed series ‘Adolescence’, the show follows the forbidden love story between nun Anna, played by Keeley Hawes, and Catholic priest David, played by Paapa Essiedu, as the two wrestle with their vows and their relationship with God. Thorne has described it as his “first ever love story.”
Where was ‘Falling’ filmed?
The filming of ‘Falling’ reportedly started in April 2025 and is expected to continue throughout the year, according to 4Filming, which states that the production was shot mostly in Bristol, Cardiff, and the South Wales area.The show was filmed in a variety of locations throughout Bristol, with much of David’s story taking place in the inner city and residential areas. The publication reports that community centres and neighbourhood streets were used to portray his involvement in different environments, with Channel 4’s official production notes also referencing his connection to the Bristol community.Cardiff and the surrounding parts of South Wales were heavily used for Anna’s storyline, particularly scenes relating to her life in the convent. Several historic properties and quiet religious-style locations around the city reportedly doubled as the secluded convent where Anna has spent most of her adult life.
The Bottle Yard Studios , Bristol
A significant portion of the production also took place at The Bottle Yard Studios in Bristol, one of the largest film and television studios in England. Interior sets for the convent, rectory and other indoor scenes were reportedly shot there. The studios have previously hosted several well-known productions, including ‘Poldark’, ‘Sherlock’, ‘The Buccaneers’ and ‘Wolf Hall’.
What Jack Thorne has said about ‘Falling’
Speaking ahead of the premiere, Thorne reflected on the project with evident enthusiasm. “I never thought I’d write a love story, but I am very excited to be making one with the brilliant Peter Hoar,” he said. “We feel so lucky we have persuaded the mighty and lovely Keeley Hawes, the brilliant and also lovely Paapa Essiedu and the most amazing company of lovely actors to come make this with us.”‘Falling’ premiered on Tuesday, May 19, at 9 pm on Channel 4 and is now available to watch on the channel’s streaming platform.
