Playing Nice is a 2025 British psychological thriller television series starring James Norton, Niamh Algar, James McArdle, and Jessica Brown Findlay. It was written by Chris Lunt and directed by Saul Metzstein. The series premiered on ITV1 on 5 January 2025.
The series is set in Cornwall and follows two couples who discover that their toddlers were switched at birth in a hospital mix-up. The story explores the emotional and ethical dilemmas that arise as the couples grapple with the shock of the revelation and the question of whether to keep the sons they have raised or reclaim their biological children.
The cast includes James Norton as Pete Riley, a successful architect who discovers that his son is not his biological child; Niamh Algar as Flora Riley, Pete’s wife and mother of their son; James McArdle as Miles, a charismatic and charming man who is also not Pete’s biological son; and Jessica Brown Findlay as Cara, Miles’s wife and mother of their son.
Where Was Playing Nice Filmed?
While the original book is set in London the series was filmed entirely in Cornwall, England, with several specific locations featured:
St Ives
This picturesque seaside town is known for its charming streets, scenic harbor, and golden beaches. Many scenes were filmed here, showcasing its stunning views. St. Ives, Cornwall, England is a picturesque coastal town in the UK, known for its beautiful beaches, art scene, and charming harbor. It’s a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months.
Padstow
A quaint fishing village on Cornwall’s northern coast, Padstow served as another key location for the series. Padstow is known for its picturesque harbor, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood. Padstow has several beautiful beaches, including Trevone Beach, Harlyn Bay, and Constantine Bay. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing
Mawgan Porth Beach
This sandy beach was the perfect spot for the show’s surfing sequences. Its serene yet rugged vibe added to the drama’s intensity. Mawgan Porth Beach is a stunning cove nestled between high Cornish headlands, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds of nearby Newquay. Mawgan Porth is a popular surfing spot, with consistent waves attracting surfers of all levels.
Park Head, Cornwall
Located in North Cornwall, Park Head provided dramatic cliffside views for some of the series’ most visually striking moments. It is situated on the banks of the River Camel and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Mevagissey
This charming village with its narrow streets and bustling harbor was also featured in the series. Mevagissey is a picturesque fishing village located on the south coast of Cornwall, England. It is known for its beautiful harbor, its historic buildings, and its delicious seafood.
Jubilee Pool, Penzance
The iconic art deco lido in Penzance added a unique touch to the show’s coastal scenes. Jubilee Pool is a beautiful art deco lido right on the beach in Penzance, Cornwall. It was built in 1935 and is one of the few remaining open-air pools in the UK. The pool is heated to a comfortable temperature all year round, so you can enjoy a swim even in the winter.
When Did the Filming of Playing Nice Take Place?
Filming took place in late 2023 and early 2024, during the off-season for tourism. This timing helped the production team avoid the usual crowds of holidaymakers in Cornwall.
Official Trailer
FAQ
Q: Where was Playing Nice filmed?
A: The series was filmed in Cornwall, England, featuring locations like St Ives, Padstow, Mawgan Porth Beach, Park Head, Mevagissey, and the Jubilee Pool in Penzance.
Q: Why wasn’
t it filmed in London like the book?
A: The production team chose Cornwall to give the series a distinctive and dramatic backdrop that suited the thriller’s atmosphere.
Q: When did the filming take place?
A: Filming occurred during the winter of 2023 and 2024.
Q: Are the surfing scenes filmed on a real beach?
A: Yes, the surfing sequences were filmed at Mawgan Porth Beach, a beautiful and popular surfing destination in Cornwall.
Source: cornwalllive