Introduction: The Allure of Bad Sisters’ Irish Setting
Apple TV+’s hit ‘Bad Sisters’ isn’t just a darkly comedic thriller; it’s a visual love letter to the rugged coastlines of Ireland. The story of the Garvey sisters, bound by a dangerous promise to free one of their own from an abusive marriage, unfolds against a backdrop so powerful it becomes a character itself.
The dramatic shores and quaint towns are more than just pretty scenery; they are woven into the very fabric of the story, shaping its unique atmosphere and tone.
Crafting a Fictional Dublin: Sharon Horgan’s Vision
A Custom Map of Dublin
Creator Sharon Horgan didn’t just pick a spot on the map; she built a unique version of Dublin tailored for the story. This ‘fictional geography’ cleverly stitches together real-life locations to forge the perfect world for the Garvey family’s dark deeds and unwavering loyalty.
This creative approach allowed the production to blend the dramatic cliffs of Howth, the seaside charm of Malahide, and even spots in Northern Ireland and England into one cohesive, believable universe.
More Than Just a Backdrop
The goal was never to showcase a glossy, aspirational version of Ireland. Horgan’s vision was to create a setting that felt grounded and authentic, reflecting the everyday lives that unfold in Dublin’s coastal suburbs.
Drawing inspiration from the tone of “Fargo,” the series masterfully balances its dark, thrilling drama with sharp, witty humor, creating a world that feels both menacing and deeply human.
The Heart of the Story: Key Filming Locations in Dublin
The Forty Foot: A Sacred Space for Sisterly Plots
Perhaps no location is more central to the series’ soul than the Forty Foot, Dublin’s iconic swimming spot. It’s here, in the bracingly cold Irish Sea, that the sisters’ whispered plots and fierce loyalty come to life.
Horgan herself called this spot the “linchpin” of the show. It acts as a sacred space where the childhood tradition of a Christmas Day swim evolves into a clandestine meeting place for their adult conspiracies.
Howth and Eva’s Clifftop Home
The Garvey family’s heart is their stunning clifftop home, set in the dramatic landscape of Howth. This area, known for its breathtaking views, provides the perfect isolated setting for the family’s secrets.
While the actual 1920s house used for filming, known as ‘Longacre’, was sadly demolished after production, the wild, beautiful coastal walks and sweeping views of Howth remain a vital part of the show’s visual identity.
Malahide: Picturesque Walks and Pubs
The picturesque coastal town of Malahide also gets its moment in the spotlight, lending its charming streets and harbor to the series. It serves as the backdrop for many of Becka’s contemplative, windswept walks.
Fans will instantly recognize the marina and the famous Gibney’s of Malahide, a classic family-run pub that becomes the site of a pivotal meeting between Becka and the handsome Matt.
Beyond Dublin: Exploring Other Irish and UK Locations
Northern Ireland’s Contribution
The production’s creative map also extended into Northern Ireland for several key scenes. The strikingly modern St John the Evangelist Church in Carnlough was chosen for the funeral, while Glenarm Marina in County Antrim also makes an appearance.
This weaving of different locales, such as using a Northern Ireland location for Bibi’s house, adds to the rich and varied tapestry of the show’s world.
A Touch of England
To complete their composite geography, the crew even filmed select scenes in England. The oppressive home of Grace and her monstrous husband, John Paul, is actually a house in Loughton, Essex.
Furthermore, buildings at the University of Hertfordshire and in London were used for various offices and homes, blending seamlessly with the primary Irish locations.
The Cultural Fabric: Why the Irish Setting Matters
The decision to root ‘Bad Sisters’ in an Irish setting is fundamental to its power. The location reinforces the show’s core themes: the unbreakable bonds of family, the claustrophobia of small-town life, and the enduring pull of tradition.
The lively pub culture, the distinctly dark Irish humor, and the fierce loyalty of the sisters are all threads in a cultural fabric that gives the story its unique flavor and emotional depth.
Conclusion: Discovering the Real Bad Sisters Country
From the bracing waters of the Forty Foot to the quaint streets of Malahide, ‘Bad Sisters’ paints a vivid picture of Ireland that goes beyond the typical tourist trail. The series masterfully blends real and imagined geography to create a world that feels both authentic and utterly captivating.
For anyone captivated by the show, exploring these real-life locations offers a chance to step directly into the world of the Garvey sisters and experience the powerful landscapes that shaped their unforgettable story.
