It’s been 10 years since Skins, the groundbreaking teen comedy-drama set in Bristol, left our screens. Spanning seven seasons, 61 episodes, and launching the Hollywood careers of actors such as Dev Patel, Daniel Kaluuya, Nicholas Hoult, Hannah Murray and Kaya Scodelario, it paved the way for everything from The Inbetweeners to HBO’s Euphoria. Despite premiering all the way back in 2007 (god we feel old) the series remains ever-popular. Particularly for young students moving to Bristol for the first time.
Several iconic locations feature throughout the TV show. Some that spring to mind first includes Park Street, where we first meet Freddie skateboarding down the road in Series 3, Episode 1. Doesn’t sound that believable now we say it, does it? While Brandon Hill is used time and time again probably because of its fantastic views. But most memorably, however, in the Series 1 finale where Sid and Cassie hold hands on a bench.
Locations from all over Bristol feature throughout the show though. Sometimes as far out as Tyntesfield House, the M5 Underpass between Avonmouth and Shirehampton, and Blaise Castle House Museum. Most filming locations in Skins unsurprisingly take place in the City Centre. With the likes of College Green, St Nicholas Market, Castle Park and Cabot Circus all getting a feature.
Unfortunately, there are too many Bristol locations in Skins to list here, but luckily we don’t have to. As someone has marvellously made a map highlighting the complete list of Skins locations and the scenes they feature in. From where Tony drives a car into the river by the Cumberland Basin to where Matty and Nick hug before Matty turns himself in to the police on Nelson Street.
Other locations mention include the rave in Redcliffe Caves, Cook’s Uncle Keith’s pub i.e Fishponds Tavern (now sadly closed), and, of course, the big engagement party the gang crash at Thekla. So if you’ve ever wondered where a scene was shot or wanted to recreate one with your mates, make this map your Skins bible.
Again and again, from Teachers to The Outlaws, Bristol set TV shows have captured the imagination of the wider public. But few have been as influential and groundbreaking as Skins. To see the complete map of Skins locations around Bristol head here.