The Hack is a true crime drama series directed by Lewis Arnold and written by Jack Thorne. The show stars David Tennant, Toby Jones, Robert Carlyle, and an ensemble cast. It investigates the News International phone-hacking scandal and the unsolved murder of Daniel Morgan.
Set between 2002 and 2012, The Hack follows journalist Nick Davies (David Tennant) as he uncovers evidence of phone hacking at News of the World. Parallel to that, there’s the police investigation into the murder of Daniel Morgan, a private investigator.
It is scheduled to first air on 24 September 2025. The series will be available on ITV, ITVX, and STV.
Table of Contents
When and Where Was ITV’s The Hack Filmed?
| Series Name | The Hack |
|---|---|
| Genres | True crime drama |
| Filming Locations | London, England, UK |
| Filming Dates | February-March 2024 (some location shoots) |
| Cinematography by | Ed Rutherford |
| Release Date | 24 September 2025 |
Filming under the working title Mandrake took place in February and March 2024, in several parts of London. Locations included Hemel Hempstead, Muswell Hill, and Kilburn.
đź“ŤHemel Hempstead
This was one of the first locations used in the shooting for The Hack. Scenes filmed here in February 2024 likely served as London stand-ins or specific settings requiring less central locations. The producers probably chose Hemel Hempstead for logistical ease and because certain scenes didn’t require being in central London.
Hemel Hempstead is a charming town with a rich history, blending old-world character with modern amenities. It’s known for its iconic ‘Magic Roundabout,’ a unique and multi-lane traffic circle that’s a true local landmark. The town offers a great mix of green spaces, a bustling high street, and easy access to London, making it a popular choice for families and commuters alike.
đź“ŤMuswell Hill, London
Muswell Hill is a residential area in North London with characteristic architecture. Scenes shot here (in Feb-Mar 2024) would provide that suburban London look or be used for staging neighbourhoods, homes, streets where journalists or other characters live or operate.
Muswell Hill, London is a neighborhood that’s known for its stunning panoramic views of the city. With a welcoming, village-like atmosphere, it’s a great spot to explore a mix of independent shops, cozy pubs, and inviting green spaces. It’s a true hidden gem for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle without venturing too far.
đź“ŤKilburn, London
Kilburn is another area in London used for filming. It may have served as more urban or inner-city backdrop. The show used Kilburn road closures to film for Project Mandrake (i.e. The Hack) in February 2024. This suggests scenes with street activity maybe public/place-based moments.
Kilburn, a lively and diverse neighborhood in London, offers a unique blend of cultures and history. It’s known for its bustling high street, Kilburn High Road, where you can find a mix of independent shops, Irish pubs, and international eateries. The area has a vibrant, down-to-earth atmosphere, making it a favorite among artists and young professionals seeking a more authentic London experience away from the tourist crowds.
đź“ŤBig Ben & River Thames
Address: London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom
Several shots in The Hack feature Big Ben and its surrounding areas, especially near the River Thames. In the trailer, David Tennant’s character can be seen walking around Big Ben, highlighting the iconic London landmark as a symbolic backdrop to the investigation storyline.
As the chimes of Big Ben echo across London, the iconic clock tower stands as a timeless sentinel. Below, the River Thames winds its historic path, reflecting the city’s vibrant skyline. Together, they form a quintessential London tableau, a scene of enduring beauty and history.
đź“ŤRoyal Horseguards Hotel, London
Address: 2 Whitehall Ct, London SW1A 2EJ, United Kingdom
The streets around the Royal Horseguards Hotel also appear in the series. One character is shown heading toward the hotel, suggesting that some sequences may have been filmed both in and around this historic location. Its grand architecture and central position make it a fitting choice for the drama.
Perched on the banks of the Thames, the Royal Horseguards Hotel offers a blend of historic grandeur and modern luxury. With stunning views of the London Eye and direct access to Embankment station, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to soak in the city’s iconic sights. This hotel provides a truly classic London experience, combining elegance and convenience in a prime location.
đź“ŤBattersea Park
Address: London SW11 4NJ, United Kingdom
Battersea Park was another filming location selected for the series. Multiple scenes set in the park involve characters meeting with others, making it an important setting for confidential conversations and tense encounters. Its greenery and open spaces add contrast to the otherwise urban settings of the series.
Escape the city’s buzz and step into Battersea Park, a tranquil oasis on the south bank of the Thames. Stroll along its serene paths, admire the beautiful Peace Pagoda, or simply relax by the boating lake. This beloved green space offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational fun, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.
The Hack Behind the Scenes
There was some secrecy around the working title Mandrake before official announcements. The production moved across various London neighbourhoods. The set crew did road closures (e.g. in Kilburn) and used both suburban and urban zones to recreate early 2000s and 2010s London.
Some first look images and trailers suggest faithful period details—cars, phone booths, newspapers—that match the real-world investigations and the time periods depicted. This combination of location and design is part of what gives authenticity.
Is there any trailer available for The Hack?
Yes, the official trailer for The Hack has been released by ITV. It shows David Tennant as Nick Davies, and teases the phone-hacking scandal, the investigations, and the high stakes.
The Hack series is set to be released on 24 September 2025 and available on ITV1, ITVX, and STV.
FAQs
Q1: Where was The Hack filmed?
A1: It was filmed in the UK, notably in London (Kilburn, Muswell Hill) as well as Hemel Hempstead.
Q2: What kind of scenes might these locations be used for in The Hack?
A2: Residential scenes (Muswell Hill), urban street scenes (Kilburn), or less busy / suburban & outskirt settings (Hemel Hempstead). Likely variety to reflect different time periods (2002-2012) and characters’ environments.
Q3: When did The Hack filming take place?
A3: Main location filming noted in February–March 2024.
Q4: Why are these locations significant or interesting for The Hack?
A4: They allow the drama to recreate London of the early 2000s up to 2012, with both suburban and central-urban settings, giving authenticity. Road closures in Kilburn for filming suggest scenes meant to look very real. Also, outside-London locations like Hemel Hempstead help with logistics and budget for scenes that don’t need central London visuals.
This guide covers the confirmed filming locations for The Hack. As more details emerge, we can update this article.