ITV's true crime drama Believe Me premieres tonight, but the four-part series was not filmed where viewers might expect. While the story is set in London, the programme was predominantly shot across Wales, supported by the Welsh Government through Creative Wales.
Key locations included Cardiff, Swansea, Port Talbot, Penarth, Newport and Dragon Studios in Bridgend. Cardiff University's Heath Park West campus doubled as the interior of Holloway Police Station, the Haven Medical Centre, and the exterior of black cab scenes. The university's main building stood in for the Royal Courts of Justice.
Brangwyn Hall in Swansea was used for HM Prison Wakefield and the Doughty Street Chambers. Newport's Kingsway Shopping Centre loading bay became a crime scene, while other streets in Newport—including the High Street, Stow Hill and Bridge Street—stood in for outdoor London locations.
Creator Jeff Pope said Wales was chosen because of its “excellent facilities and infrastructure.” Director Julia Ford had previously filmed in the region and knew locations that could double for London. Actress Aimee-Ffion Edwards, who plays Sarah, lives in Newport.
The drama follows the victims of John Worboys as they fight for justice after the Metropolitan Police failed to thoroughly investigate their allegations. It airs tonight at 9pm on ITV.
