ITV Confirms Return of Hit Crime Drama Gone Filming in Bristol 2026

Key Points

• It is official that an ITV crime drama series set and filmed in Bristol will be back with another mystery.
• According to the Bristol Post, this series will focus on a very intriguing case starring Ruth Manning.
• Actress Keeley Hawes will star as Ruth Manning in this Bristol filmed show.
• It looks like DS Cassidy will be back with another set of exciting mysteries in the South West area.

Bristol (Bristol Express News) November 5, 2026 — Fans of gripping British television are celebrating as a major ITV crime drama rooted in Bristol has shared an exciting update confirming its highly anticipated return with a brand-new investigation.

What are the latest developments surrounding the Bristol-based ITV crime drama?

According to reporting by the Bristol Post, television audiences can look forward to the return of DS Cassidy for a fresh wave of crime-solving action set against the backdrop of Bristol. The popular series, which has heavily relied on the West Country city’s distinct urban landscapes and atmospheric settings, is expanding its narrative arc to captivate viewers once again.

As detailed by the Bristol Post, the upcoming storyline shifts its focal point toward a compelling character named Ruth Manning. Industry updates confirm that acclaimed British actress Keeley Hawes has stepped into the pivotal role of Ruth Manning, adding significant star power to the returning programme.

Who is starring in the returning series and what role does Keeley Hawes play?

The inclusion of high-calibre acting talent has continuously elevated the profile of Bristol-centric television productions. As highlighted by the Bristol Post, acclaimed performer Keeley Hawes takes on the gripping persona of Ruth Manning. While specific plot details regarding Manning’s exact involvement in the criminal investigations are being kept tightly under wraps by production teams, her integration into the narrative promises high emotional stakes and dramatic confrontations.

The return of DS Cassidy also anchors the storyline in familiar investigative territory, ensuring that continuity remains strong for dedicated followers of the franchise. The synergy between the gritty urban backdrop of Bristol and stellar performances from leading British actors has established the city as a premier hub for contemporary UK television drama.

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Where was the production filmed and why is Bristol a favourite for ITV?

Bristol continues to cement its reputation as a powerhouse location for television production, attracting major networks like ITV to utilize its diverse architecture, historic harbourside locations, and dynamic community backdrops. Production crews have frequently transformed various Bristol districts into crime-fighting headquarters and dramatic narrative landscapes.

As noted by local media reports over successive seasons, filming in the area brings a unique visual authenticity to British crime thrillers. The city’s distinct combination of industrial heritage and modern metropolitan growth provides a versatile canvas for directors and writers aiming to craft gritty, grounded narratives that resonate with national audiences.

Background of the Particular Development

The expansion of regional television production in cities like Bristol reflects a broader strategic shift within British broadcasting toward decentralising drama away from London. Over recent years, Bristol has emerged as a premier filming destination supported by organizations like the Bristol Film Office, fostering local talent, boosting regional tourism, and creating sustainable creative sector jobs. Crime dramas, in particular, have found immense success by utilizing the West Country’s varied topography—from urban Victorian streets to sweeping rural landscapes—providing a visceral, atmospheric backdrop that enhances storytelling authenticity. The return of established characters alongside high-profile casting additions like Keeley Hawes demonstrates network confidence in Bristol’s enduring appeal as a cornerstone of British television production.

How This Development Can Affect Viewers and the Local Audience

The continuation and expansion of high-profile crime dramas filmed in Bristol will likely deliver significant economic and cultural benefits to the local community while elevating viewer engagement nationwide. For the local audience and Bristol residents, continued high-end television production translates into increased visibility, enhanced local business patronage during active shoots, and a strengthened reputation as a thriving cultural hub. For television viewers across the United Kingdom, the return of familiar investigative units paired with top-tier talent guarantees premium entertainment value, reinforcing loyalty to ITV’s gripping regional drama lineup and satisfying growing public appetite for authentic, location-rich storytelling.