For viewers who have been swept up in the tension of the BBC crime drama The Pact, parts of its atmosphere were shot right here in our region. The series, which originally aired in 2021 and returned for a second run in 2024, used locations across south Wales — including Merthyr Tydfil — to anchor its six-part storytelling.
Local streets and familiar scenes on a national stage
The first series centres on four colleagues at a brewery whose lives are disrupted when their boss is found dead and they form a pact of silence. The drama’s claustrophobic tone and the careful build of suspicion have prompted strong praise from viewers and critics alike.
On-screen talent includes Laura Fraser and Gabrielle Creevy — who plays Tamsin, a troubled teenager — joined by a cast that features Julie Hesmondhalgh, Eiry Thomas, Heledd Gwynn, Eddie Marsan and Jason Hughes. The show’s makers chose a variety of Welsh settings to frame the narrative, and Merthyr Tydfil is listed among those key locations.
Why it matters locally
Film and television production can bring a spotlight to the county: it raises the profile of local places, contributes to the visitor economy and showcases familiar streets and buildings to a national audience. For residents, seeing Merthyr Tydfil on screen can be a matter of civic pride as well as practical interest — people often want to know where their local high street, park or industrial backdrop has appeared.
- Series: The Pact (first aired 2021; returned 2024)
- Notable cast: Laura Fraser, Gabrielle Creevy, Julie Hesmondhalgh
- Local connection: Filming locations include Merthyr Tydfil among others in south Wales
| Location | Role in production |
|---|---|
| Merthyr Tydfil | Listed as a key filming location |
| Blaenavon | Listed as a key filming location |
| Monmouthshire & Newport | Listed as key settings |
Viewers have been vocal in their praise for the drama. One of the many comments online summed up the reaction:
"Brilliant Show. I really enjoyed every episode."
Other reactions called the series "Horrifyingly outstanding" and "AMAZING," with many noting the strength of the writing, acting and the sense of place created by the Welsh scenery.
Practical note for residents
While the series does not advertise precise addresses for filming, anyone interested in finding the specific spots used on screen should be aware that many productions prefer to work with local authorities and landowners when planning shoots. If you believe a location in Merthyr Tydfil was used and you are curious about future opportunities or the impact of filming, your first points of contact are the council’s events and tourism teams.
The popularity of The Pact underlines how television drama can cast a broader light on communities across Wales. For Merthyr Tydfil, being part of that backdrop brings local streets into national conversation and gives viewers another reason to explore the places they recognise on screen.
