The Dark is a crime thriller, mystery, and drama series directed by Gilles Bannier. The series is based on G.R. Halliday’s bestselling 2020 novel From the Shadows. It stars Laura Donnelly, Emun Elliott, Mark Rowley, Helen Baxendale, and Tunji Kasim in leading roles. The gripping ITV drama takes viewers through a chilling murder investigation set against the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland. Here’s everything you need to know about the filming locations and behind-the-scenes details of The Dark.
The story follows Detective Monica Kennedy as she investigates a brutal murder in the Scottish countryside. As the investigation unfolds, she discovers that the killing may be linked to a dangerous serial killer hiding within a quiet rural community. While solving the mystery, Monica must also confront painful memories from her own past.
The Dark premiered on July 12, 2026, in the United Kingdom. The series premiered on ITV1 and STV.
Table of Contents
When and Where Was ITV’s The Dark Filmed?
| Film Name | The Dark |
|---|---|
| Genres | Crime Thriller, Mystery, Drama |
| Filming Locations | Glasgow, Greenock, Balfron Station, Strathaven, Rest and Be Thankful, Saltcoats, Scotland |
| Filming Dates | September 2025 |
| Cinematography by | Joel Honeywell |
| Release Date | July 12, 2026 |
The Dark was filmed entirely across Scotland, with production beginning in September 2025. Glasgow served as the main production base before filming moved to several towns, villages, coastal areas, and mountain landscapes across western and southern Scotland. The production team selected authentic Scottish locations to create the fictional rural community featured throughout the series.
📍Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow served as the main filming hub for The Dark. Many scenes were shot across the city during autumn 2025, using its Victorian architecture, historic streets, and traditional Scottish buildings. The dramatic finale features an aerial view of the famous Trinity College Tower in Glasgow’s West End, helping establish the show’s unmistakable Scottish setting. Glasgow’s mix of old and modern architecture made it the perfect location for both police investigation scenes and city backdrops.
📍Greenock, Inverclyde
The production also filmed in Greenock, a historic waterfront town located on the River Clyde. Its working harbor, coastal streets, and scenic views toward the Highlands helped create the series’ rugged atmosphere. The filmmakers used the town to capture scenes that highlight the beauty and isolation of western Scotland, adding realism to the detective story.
📍Balfron Station, Stirling
Several important scenes were filmed around the former Balfron railway station. Although the station closed many years ago, the surrounding countryside remains quiet and untouched. The peaceful rural landscape perfectly matched the isolated setting needed for the mystery. The contrast between the beautiful scenery and the dark events in the story adds even more suspense throughout the series.
📍Strathaven, South Lanarkshire
The historic market town of Strathaven became another important filming location. Its traditional stone buildings, peaceful streets, and welcoming village atmosphere helped create the fictional close-knit community seen in the series. The town’s authentic Scottish character allowed the production to present a believable rural setting where everyone seems to know each other.
📍Rest and Be Thankful, Argyll Forest Park
Some of the series’ most breathtaking landscape shots were filmed at Rest and Be Thankful, one of Scotland’s most famous mountain passes. Located between Arrochar and Inveraray, the area offers spectacular views of the Arrochar Alps and surrounding valleys. The dramatic scenery adds tension and beauty to several outdoor sequences while emphasizing the remote nature of the investigation.
📍Saltcoats, North Ayrshire
Filming also took place in the seaside town of Saltcoats. Known for its sandy beaches and beautiful views across the Firth of Clyde toward the Isle of Arran, the town provides another stunning Scottish backdrop. The coastal scenery brings visual variety to the series while maintaining its dark and atmospheric tone.
📍The Isolated Farmhouse
One of the most memorable settings in The Dark is the isolated farmhouse belonging to Bethany and Barclay. According to cast interviews, the property was surrounded by open countryside and housed livestock including pigs and hens. Although the farmhouse plays a major role in the story, the production has not revealed its exact filming location.
The Dark Behind the Scenes
Filming began in September 2025, and director Gilles Bannier expected Scotland’s usual cloudy weather to help create the thriller’s gloomy atmosphere. Instead, the cast and crew experienced one of Scotland’s sunniest Septembers in years. As a result, the production team had to carefully adjust lighting and camera angles to maintain the series’ dark visual style.
The cast also shared several behind-the-scenes moments while filming across Scotland, although no official Instagram behind-the-scenes gallery has been released yet.
For more information about other shooting locations, stay tuned to this post. We will continue updating it as more production details become available.
Is There Any Trailer Available for The Dark?
Yes. The official trailer for The Dark was released on the ITV YouTube Channel before the series premiered. It gives viewers a first look at the haunting Scottish landscapes, the murder investigation, and Detective Monica Kennedy’s search for a serial killer.
The Dark aired on July 12, 2026, via ITV1 and STV.
FAQs
Q1: Where was The Dark filmed?
A1: The Dark was filmed entirely in Scotland, including Glasgow, Greenock, Balfron Station, Strathaven, Saltcoats, Rest and Be Thankful, and an undisclosed farmhouse location.
Q2: What scenes were filmed at Rest and Be Thankful in The Dark?
A2: Several outdoor landscape scenes in The Dark were filmed at Rest and Be Thankful. The mountain pass was chosen because of its dramatic scenery and remote atmosphere, which perfectly matched the tone of the thriller.
Q3: When did filming for The Dark begin?
A3: Filming for The Dark began in September 2025 and continued across several locations in western and southern Scotland.
Q4: Can I visit the filming locations of The Dark?
A4: Yes. Most filming locations from The Dark, including Glasgow, Greenock, Strathaven, Saltcoats, and Rest and Be Thankful, are open to visitors. Be sure to check local access information before planning your trip.
The Dark makes excellent use of Scotland’s incredible landscapes to create an unforgettable crime thriller. From the historic streets of Glasgow to the dramatic mountain scenery of Argyll Forest Park and the peaceful villages of western Scotland, every filming location adds depth and realism to the story. If you’re a fan of Scottish crime dramas, these beautiful filming locations are well worth exploring.
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