09 Oct 2024
Wales is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s long been a backdrop for many iconic TV and film productions. One of which is the much-loved sitcom, Gavin and Stacey.
Originally brought to our screens in May 2007, the series explores the humorous and heartwarming relationships between two families from Wales and Essex.
Following news that the iconic TV show is due to air the last ever Christmas special this December, fans have flocked to its famous filming locations in hope of spotting the stars. In fact, research done on behalf of TfW has revealed that Google searches for “Gavin and Stacey Barry Island” have increased by 116% across the UK over the last three months.
With this in mind, we’re revealing some of the iconic filming locations from the sitcom that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. We’re urging Gavin and Stacey fans to visit Wales and experience its famous filming locations.
Barry Island
Gavin and Stacey frequently features Barry Island’s vibrant waterfront, arcades and beach, adding to the show's charm and local character. Many scenes take place here, including Nessa’s work life at the slots and Marco’s cafe. Visiting this iconic location is easy, with Barry Island railway station putting you right at the heart of the action.
Trinity Street, Barry
You can find the house used as the exterior for Stacey’s family home at 47 Trinity Street in Barry. If you’re planning to visit, you might find that you spot two famous filming locations, as it was also used as the backdrop for Uncle Bryn's house, just across the street.
St Peter's Square, Dinas Powys
Although Gavin’s family home is set in Billericay, Essex, eagle-eyed fans of the show may know this house is actually situated on Laburnum Way, Dinas Powys. The Shipman’s house was also the location for much of the sitcom’s first-ever Christmas special in 2007.
The Colcot Arms, Barry
Fans of the show will be pleased to know that despite Smithy’s local being set in Essex, you can actually visit this filming location in Wales, at The Colcot Arms in Barry. However, you’re unlikely to catch James Corden acting as quiz master here!
Rhoose, Vale of Glamorgan
You can explore Dave’s caravan site in Rhoose, where Dave, Nessa and Baby Neil all once lived.
Llanmaes, Vale of Glamorgan
In Llanmaes you can find St Cattwg’s, the church that hosted Gavin and Stacey’s wedding ceremony at the end of the first season.
Media Contact
Emily Salt emily.salt@wearenorth.uk
Sources
- Google Search data accessed via Google Keyword Planner, accurate as of 18/09/2024
- https://www.visitwales.com/things-do/attractions/tv-and-film-locations/gavin-and-stacey-filming-locations
- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2xx0znpgpeo
About Transport for Wales
Transport for Wales is driving forward the Welsh Government’s vision of a high-quality, safe, integrated, affordable, and accessible transport network that the people of Wales are proud of.
They want people to trust and believe in them and commit to changing their behaviour, travelling more sustainably and doing their bit for all futures. The multimodal, integrated transport network they’re building will enable people to do this.
Whether it’s public transport, walking, wheeling or cycling, they want to make sustainable travel not only the right thing to do, but also an easier thing to do.