Is the ITV series Coldwater a real account and where was it shot on location?
In the serene landscapes of rural Scotland, a dark and twisted thriller unfolds. "Coldwater," a six-part series written by award-winning playwright David Ireland, made its debut on ITV in September 2025.
The series, which serves as Ireland's foray into television, explores the dark secrets hidden within a small Scottish rural community. Ireland, who is also the creator, writer, and executive producer of the show, drew inspiration for "Coldwater" from his own life and personal musings.
Andrew Lincoln stars as John, a character somewhat based on Ireland himself. John, a Londoner seeking a fresh start, moves to the fictional town of Coldwater with his family. However, his life becomes increasingly complicated as he struggles with his new role as a stay-at-home dad and befriends a neighbour who isn't entirely trustworthy.
The church in Dunlop, a town in East Ayrshire, plays a central role in the storylines of Coldwater. Filming also took place at Glen Fruin, an area adjacent to Loch Lomond, showcasing the quintessential beauty of rural Scotland. The majority of the external scenes depicting Coldwater were filmed in Dunlop, where the church central to the show's storylines is located.
David Ireland described "Coldwater" as his "little fantasy," idealizing rural Scotland in the show. During the pandemic, Ireland, who had trouble sleeping and was reading the Bible and true crime books, may have influenced the dark tone of the series.
John's move to Coldwater was prompted by his failure to intervene during a violent playground confrontation and his desire to heal his crumbling marriage. Ireland and his wife were considering moving out of Glasgow and into the countryside in 2020, which may have provided the spark for the story.
"Coldwater" is not based on a specific true story, but it draws from the real life of writer David Ireland. The series, produced alongside the cast and producers, offers a gripping exploration of a small town's dark secrets, set against the picturesque backdrop of rural Scotland.
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