Somerset is stepping into the spotlight this year with two major screen productions highlighting the county’s unique locations and vibrant community.
On January 7, the new Dawn French sitcom, Can You Keep A Secret?, premiering on BBC One and available on iPlayer, brings the picturesque towns of Axbridge and Cheddar to viewers nationwide. This comedy series, filmed largely in these areas, follows the story of Debbie Fendon (played by Dawn French) and her husband William (Mark Heap) as they navigate the chaos that ensues when William is mistakenly declared dead, triggering unexpected financial twists for their family.
Just a week later, on January 15, Netflix releases Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials, a lavish three-part adaptation featuring stars like Mia McKenna-Bruce, Helena Bonham Carter, and Martin Freeman. Key scenes were filmed on the scenic West Somerset Railway, including Blue Anchor and Minehead, blending authentic local charm with gripping storytelling.
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Both productions benefited from the support of Screen Somerset, the film office run by Somerset Council, which is dedicated to encouraging and facilitating filming within the county. Their efforts recognize the significant economic boost these projects provide. Last year alone, film and television production contributed an estimated £4.2 million to Somerset’s economy, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and raising the profile of the region as a premier filming destination.
Councillor Mike Rigby, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, remarked, “Film and TV production is fantastic for our economy and tourism, which is why we’re committed to making Somerset as welcoming as possible for filmmakers. Having two major productions with national and international audiences debut this January is a wonderful way to start 2026.”
The impact of filming is palpably felt in communities like Axbridge. Louise Cooling, owner of Ripley Antiques and Interiors located at Axbridge Town Square, expressed her enthusiasm: “It’s tough to keep a small business thriving in a close-knit community, so filming is a real boost. The excitement it brings is infectious, and we’re proud to showcase our town. Dawn French even complimented our shop and praised Mary Matthews’ lemon drizzle cake—it’s now legendary in town!”
Local café owner Matt Tovey, who runs the Waterfall Café with his parents, also shared his experience hosting the Can You Keep A Secret? crew. “The scale of the production was eye-opening. It’s amazing to see behind the scenes and meet people usually only seen on TV. Dawn French filmed a scene at what I now call ‘the Dawn French table’—table three in the corner. It’s a memory we’ll treasure.”
All six episodes of Can You Keep A Secret? are currently available on BBC iPlayer, with the first episode having aired on BBC One at 9:30 pm on January 7. Meanwhile, Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials is streaming on Netflix from January 15, featuring filming locations across the South West, including the iconic Bottle Yard Studios and the scenic West Somerset Railway.
These productions not only entertain but also celebrate Somerset’s scenic beauty and tight-knit communities, fostering pride and economic growth across the county.