How a TV show has drawn Australians and Americans to Donaghadee
The seaside town of Donaghadee in Northern Ireland has seen a surge in tourism due to its role as the filming location for the BBC drama 'Hope Street'. Locals report that fans from around the world visit the town to see the settings featured in the show.
Why it matters
This highlights the 'set-jetting' phenomenon where popular television series significantly impact local economies and tourism patterns in small towns.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Kevin Sharkey BBC News NI Getty Images Donaghadee Harbour and lighthouse regularly feature in the show What happens to a pretty seaside town when film crews descend upon it?
People in "Port Devine" - with its multi-coloured houses, a lighthouse and spectacular coastal views - have been experiencing the effects for five years now.
Its real name is Donaghadee and while its charm has been long appreciated by locals and day-trippers alike, the town's alter ego has captured the hearts of many more as home to the popular BBC police drama Hope Street.
Fans have flocked to the County Down location since filming first started in 2021.
Kathryn Strain, who is a member of the Chunky Dunkers sea swimming group in Donaghadee, says it's common to see tourists from cruise ships visiting Belfast making trips to the town.
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