Netflix’s latest binge-worthy spy thriller, Black Doves, isn’t just a showcase of high-octane espionage and compelling performances by Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw. It’s also a love letter to London, capturing the city’s essence during the festive season. Created by Joe Barton of Giri/Haji fame, the show follows Helen Webb (Knightley), a secret agent married to the UK’s Secretary of State for Defence, as she navigates personal and professional chaos when her lover is killed by a mystery sniper. Alongside her enigmatic colleague Sam Young (Whishaw), the duo unravels layers of deceit, set against a distinctly London backdrop. Here’s a breakdown of the stunning locations that bring Black Doves to life.
Netflix’s ‘Black Doves’: Where Was the Series Shot? – Filming Locations & Other Details
Key Filming Locations in London
The South Bank
In the opening moments of the series, Helen’s lover Jason (played by Andrew Koji) meets a grim fate on the bustling South Bank. Filming such a high-profile scene required careful planning. “We shot either before 8 a.m. or between midnight and 3 a.m. to avoid the crowds,” explains producer Harry Munday. The iconic Thameside setting underscores the gritty, public nature of Jason’s murder.
Crystal Palace
Helen’s family home, where much of her domestic life unravels, was found in Crystal Palace. After scouring 85 potential houses, the production settled on a six-bedroom property that balanced elegance with authenticity. “It reflected the variety of living in London,” says Munday. Interior scenes, including a dramatic fight sequence featuring Paapa Essiedu’s assassin Elmore Fitch, were also shot here.
St Paul’s Angel’s Wings, Paternoster Square
Shadowy spy chief Reed (Sarah Lancashire) first meets Helen near the Angel’s Wings sculpture at St Paul’s Cathedral. The stainless steel art installation, tucked away in Paternoster Square, provided an enigmatic backdrop. Night shoots with blue lighting added to the character’s mysterious aura.
Brentford’s Exploding Flat
In episode two, Sam and Helen’s investigation leads them to a flat rigged with explosives. While the exterior was shot in Brentford, the interior and the subsequent dramatic balcony jump were crafted using studio magic and VFX. Knightley and Whishaw filmed underwater sequences in a controlled tank setup.
Tooting’s Granada Building
A historic former cinema turned bingo hall in Tooting serves as the backdrop for a tense exchange between Sam and Reed in episode three. The grandeur of the space contrasts with the covert nature of their conversation.
Leadenhall Market, Pines and Needles, and Liberty
The series’ Christmas aesthetic shines in its use of Leadenhall Market and the Pines and Needles Christmas tree market in Victoria Park. Helen’s quest for vital tech unfolds amidst the festively adorned shops, capturing the magic of London during the holiday season. Liberty’s iconic exterior also makes a brief appearance in the first episode.
London’s Pubs
From The Coal Hole in Covent Garden to The Westminster Arms in Whitehall, London’s pubs play a pivotal role in the narrative. These cozy, atmospheric spaces highlight the city’s charm while serving as key locations for espionage and character interactions.
Black Doves was filmed across 85 locations over 93 days, with production spanning October 2023 to March 2024. The meticulous attention to detail ensured an authentic portrayal of London’s vibrancy and diversity.
