Gavin and Stacey Filming Locations
Attractions | Beach | Coastal Pubs | Pub Accommodation | Posted 2024.09.17
Gavin and Stacey, the beloved British sitcom that aired from 2007 to 2010 continues to hold a special place in the hearts of its fans. The show has become a cultural phenomenon with its charming characters, witty humour and endearing storylines.
However, the locations where the series was filmed are just as important to the series’ atmosphere as the cast and the plot. From the picturesque seafront of Barry Island to the quiet streets of Billericay, the filming locations of Gavin and Stacey have become iconic destinations for fans eager to step into the world of the show.
The exciting and highly anticipated finale which is due to grace our screens at Christmas this year makes for the perfect time to visit the iconic locations that are known and loved.
Barry Island, South Wales
The Seafront and Amusement Arcades
One of the most famous settings on Barry Island is its promenade where Nessa (played by Ruth Jones) works at the “Slots” amusement arcade. Fans can visit the real-life arcade which is called ‘Island Leisure’. The bright lights and bustling atmosphere make it easy to imagine Nessa sitting behind the counter serving chips and delivering her signature deadpan lines.
Marco’s Café
Another iconic spot is Marco’s Café, where Stacey (played by Joanna Page) and Nessa often catch up on the latest gossip. The café, located on the Barry Island seafront is a real establishment that still operates today. Fans can sit down for a cup of tea and enjoy the view of the water just like their favourite characters.
Trinity Street
Stacey’s family home is located at 47 Trinity Street, Barry. While you cannot go inside (it is a private residence), fans often take photos outside the house, where many of the show’s outdoor scenes are filmed. The street has become an attraction, with fans making long trips to see the front door where countless comedic and emotional moments unfold.
The Dunstan House Inn sits in the heart of Burnham-on-Sea and is packed full of seaside charm. The pub is dog and family friendly and well-positioned just off the M5, between Bristol and Exeter. Perfectly perched between the Quantock Hills and Mendip Hills AONB, there are breathtaking coastlines and nature reserves on the doorstep. Book a stay in one of six coastal inspired bedrooms.
Book a stay here: The Dunstan House
The Pontcanna Inn, is located in a prime spot of Cardiff’s city centre. This inn offers ten boutique en-suite bedrooms. Offering a good choice of freshly made, home-cooked dishes, from brunch on the weekend and a classic Sunday roast.
Book a stay here: The Pontcanna Inn
Billericay, Essex
While Barry Island represents Stacey’s world, Billericay in Essex is the stomping ground of Gavin Shipman (played by Matthew Horne). Gavin’s family home and the streets of Billericay were central to the storylines involving his side of the family, led by the unforgettable Pam Shipman (Alison Steadman) and Mick Shipman (Larry Lamb). Though many scenes were filmed in Wales, Billericay holds symbolic importance in the show as Gavin’s hometown.
Gavin’s Family Home
Gavin’s house is set in Billericay, but the actual house used for the exterior shots is in Dinas Powys, a suburb near Cardiff. The house is a private residence, but many fans visit the area to see the house from the outside. It is where Gavin and Stacey’s relationship blossomed and where Pam’s hilarious antics (such as her obsession with Westlife) played out.
Book a stay in a pub nearby and visit Gavin’s family home.
The Beverley is an elegant Victorian pub situated close to the city centre of Cardiff. The pub has 17 comfortable en-suite bedrooms, including good options for families and guests requiring a twin room. The bar is well stocked with cask ales and craft beers and there is a beer garden for those warm summer days.
Book a stay here: The Beverley
Cardiff, South Wales
Much of the filming for the show took place in and around Cardiff, with many key interior shots done in the studios. Still, Cardiff’s streets and neighbourhoods make occasional appearances in the show.
Church Road, Penarth
This is the location of the Shipman’s home, where many of the outdoor family scenes were filmed. It’s another residential area, but the houses here are unmistakably tied to the world of Gavin and Stacey. The manicured gardens and quiet, leafy streets contrast beautifully with the vibrant seafront scenes in Barry.
Barry Docks Station
In the Christmas special and several other episodes, Barry Docks Station is featured when characters travel between Barry Island and Billericay. It is a key filming spot, as it represents the emotional distance between Gavin and Stacey’s long-distance relationship. Fans often visit the station to recreate scenes or simply take in the nostalgic vibes of the series.
The Heathcock Hotel is an acclaimed gastro pub situated in the district of Llandaff in the north of Cardiff. Alongside a bar, their dining room offers a seasonal menu bringing regional Welsh cooking to the capital. The pub has two beautiful bedrooms, one of which has views over the hills to Castle Coch. Llandaff lies on the west bank of the River Taff, two miles from the city centre.
Book a stay here: The Heathcock Hotel
Lesser-Known Filming Spots
In addition to the well-known locations in Barry Island and Cardiff, there are a few hidden gems scattered across South Wales that featured briefly but played significant roles in Gavin and Stacey. These spots are perfect for fans looking to explore beyond the obvious destinations.
The Island View Café, Cardiff
This café is located in Penarth and was used for several interior shots throughout the series. Though less famous than Marco’s Café, it is worth a visit for diehard fans who want to experience even the smallest corners of the show’s world.
St. Peter’s Church, Cardiff
This church is located in Roath, Cardiff. It was featured in one of the wedding scenes in Gavin and Stacey. Its beautiful interior and quiet atmosphere offer a contrast to the bustling seafront scenes of Barry Island.
The Magic of Gavin and Stacey’s Filming Locations
What makes the filming locations of Gavin and Stacey so special is how they blend ordinary everyday places with the extraordinary charm and humour of the show. Fans visiting Barry Island or the quiet streets of Dinas Powys aren’t just visiting filming spots, they’re stepping into a world where love, friendship and laughter come alive in familiar, down-to-earth settings.
Whether you are strolling along Barry Island’s seafront, sipping tea at Marco’s Café or exploring the suburbs of Cardiff, you will find that these locations are more than just backdrops – they are an essential part of the show’s heart and soul. So, next time you are in South Wales or Essex, take a moment to relive the magic of Gavin and Stacey by visiting the spots that brought this unforgettable sitcom to life.
Pubs Nearby
The Victoria Hotel boasts breathtaking views of the Menai Strait. Recently reopened after a stunning refurbishment, the pub has 14 bedrooms, some with sea views and there are also good options for families and guests requiring an accessible room. They are the picture-perfect base from which to relax, indulge and explore.
Book a stay here: The Victoria Hotel
The Oyster House is situated in Swansea. A brand-new dog-friendly pub, restaurant and bar with boutique bedrooms, located on the seafront on Oyster Wharf in The Mumbles. There are 16 gorgeous bedrooms to choose from many with panoramic sea views. The cosmopolitan seaside village of Mumbles sits on the five-mile sweep of Swansea Bay and is home to luxury boutique ships and arguably the world’s best ice cream.
Book a stay here: The Oyster House
The Royal Ship Hotel sits in the town of Dolgellau. The pub has 15 cosy bedrooms, including brilliant options for families, cyclists, walkers, anglers and those guests bringing a dog. They are a popular base from which to explore Cadair Idris, Barmouth, Tywyn, and southern Snowdonia.
Book a stay here: The Royal Ship Hotel