Filming in Broadstairs!

It's time again to get back to Monday Location Highlights! And this time it is to explore the filming that has taken place in the gorgeous coastal town of Broadstairs in Thanet.

Often called the 'Jewel in Thanet's Crown', Broadstairs is steeped in history that dates back centuries. What was once a small fishing village is now a tourism hotspot and a hive of activity for filming. The name Broadstairs is thought to have come from the broad steps that were carved into the chalk cliffs that led to the ancient shrine of St Mary. The town is also heavily linked to Charles Dickens who spent many of his summers in the village, apparently he also wrote parts of David Copperfield whilst in Bleak House which overlooked the sea. Given this rich history combined with its coastal charm, it gives such an incredible timeless quality that attracts film makers and tourists alike. With historic streets and a dramatic shoreline, it continues to be the perfect backdrop for both period dramas and contemporary productions.

Lady in the Van

In November 2014, the production team made the trip to Broadstairs for the only filming location outside of London. The classic 1970's era was made using the various streets, Viking Bay, Palace Cinema & Morelli's Gelato. With a 2 day shoot bringing 50 crew members to the coast, they helped put £40,000 into the local economy. This creative approach helped develop the visual storytelling and added to the history of filming on the coast.

Empire of Light

Although set and mostly filmed around Margate, this historic parade and bandstand made an appearance adding to the charm of the movie. The charming Lillyputt mini golf course is visited by Stephen (Micheal Ward) and Ruby (Crystal Clarke) and then they walk through the Victoria Gardens before finding Hilary (Olivia Coleman) near the historic bandstand. The latter scene is cleverly underscored by the seaside's natural beauty and theatrical potential.

Breeders

For the second season of the show, Martin Freeman and Daisy Haggard made a visit to the coastal town. The coastal streets and bay started as a backdrop but soon became a character within the show. The couple along with the kids and parents had a scene in the Funicular Coffee House overlooking the Viking Bay. They also filmed on Victoria Parade, Harbour Street, Ocean Drive and Louisa Bay.

Derek

The Channel 4 comedy from Ricky Gervais featured Broadstairs in a very touching episode. On the trip from the care home, they filmed in Victoria Gardens and Viking Bay. Ricky Gervais apparently fell in love with the charming town during filming and praised it as "a beautiful, unspoilt English seaside town". With the powerful storytelling, the episode showed how the nostalgic charm can support storytelling in such an authentic way.

Hurricane

This 2018, WWII drama about the Polish fighter pilots during Battle of Britain was filmed in two iconic Broadstairs locations. Victoria Gardens once again provided a backdrop to a pivotal scene between Josef Frantisek, Ziggy and Jan Zumbach. Stone Bay also appears when Zumbach walks along the shore after commandeering a plane to escape England. This use of the classic Victorian Broadstairs helped evoke the tension, urgency and sense of hope in war torn Britain.

Only Fools and Horses

Finally, but actually the earliest thing I found filmed in Broadstairs is the 1989 special 'Jolly Boys Outing'. Although the majority of the episode was filmed in Margate where their trip ends, they filmed some of the starting scenes in various locations in Thanet. And Broadstairs was where the police station exterior was filmed on Gladstone Road, the current use of the building is a bit of a mystery. (W3W- united.warm.plank).

To view the instagram post click the button below.

Click Me