Bradford Takes Center Stage in Exciting New BBC Thriller: ‘Virdee’
A new BBC crime thriller series called Virdee, set in the 2025 City of Culture, is making waves among locals who recognize many familiar landmarks.
The six-part drama, based on books by AA Dhand and featuring Staz Nair as Det Ch Insp Harry Virdee and Aysha Kala as Saima Hyatt-Virdee, began its run last Monday. The series has already given viewers a glimpse of Bradford’s rich history and modern vibrancy through various iconic locations.
One of the most prominent scenes in Virdee shows Det Ch Insp Harry Virdee and Saima Hyatt-Virdee facing City Hall, with its landmark mirror pool in City Park as their backdrop. The Grade I listed building designed by local architects Lockwood and Mawson still towers over the city centre after being built as Bradford Town Hall in 1873.
Another memorable shot shows Kala standing in front of the mirror pool, with Starbucks, Wetherspoons, and Nando’s behind her. These establishments are a testament to Bradford’s modernity and have been part of the city centre for many years.
In addition to City Hall, Virdee features other recognizable locations such as Sunbridge Wells, an underground tunnel complex that was previously used as prison cells and air raid shelters during World War Two. The tunnels now house restaurants, cafes, and shops.
The City Vaults pub, a former bank turned beer-serving establishment in Bradford for over 30 years, also appears prominently in the series. Located opposite the Grade I Wool Exchange building with its Art Deco glass and wrought ironwork, including a spiral staircase, the pub has been serving as a local watering hole for decades.
AA Dhand, who grew up in Bradford and is both the writer and executive producer of Virdee, emphasized his desire to showcase his hometown during its UK City of Culture year. He chose filming locations that highlight the contrast between old and new Bradford while also showing areas affected by the decline of the city’s mill industry.
The inclusion of these familiar landmarks not only adds authenticity to Virdee but also serves as a positive representation of Bradford for both locals and viewers. Dhand believes it is vital that local people are involved in productions showcasing their home, and he hopes that Virdee‘s depiction will encourage more visitors to explore the beauty and vibrancy of Bradford.
The success of Virdee so far suggests that there is a growing interest in using television series as platforms for highlighting local culture and landmarks. As the drama continues, audiences are likely to be treated to many more familiar sights from this vibrant city.
