Bradford is star of new BBC TV thriller Virdee

The new BBC television series Virdee has recently premiered, and it is a crime drama that many residents of Bradford will find quite familiar. This six-part series began airing last Monday and is set in the vibrant city of Bradford, which is known for its rich history and lively atmosphere. The creator of the show, AA Dhand, who grew up in Bradford, aimed to showcase the unique characteristics of his hometown. In the first episode, viewers are treated to a visual tour of various local landmarks, including the iconic City Hall and the stunning mirror pool located in City Park. These locations not only serve as beautiful backdrops but also help to create a sense of authenticity for those who call Bradford home. Bradford's City Hall is a significant and historic building that has been a central part of the city since it opened in 1873. The Grade I listed structure, designed by local architects Lockwood and Mawson, stands tall in the city center. One of the most memorable scenes in Virdee features the main characters, Det Ch Insp Harry Virdee, portrayed by Staz Nair, and Saima Hyatt-Virdee, played by Aysha Kala, as they stand in front of City Hall and the mirror pool. The mirror pool is known as the largest urban water feature in the UK, and at night, it transforms into a dazzling display of lights, lasers, and water, creating a magical atmosphere. The show effectively captures the beauty of Bradford, even in the evening hours. In addition to showcasing the historic aspects of Bradford, Virdee also highlights the modern side of the city. In one scene, viewers can spot popular establishments such as Starbucks, Wetherspoons, and Nando's in the background. While these modern buildings may not have the same romantic charm as the Victorian architecture, they are an integral part of Bradford's cityscape in 2025. Another notable location featured in the series is Sunbridge Wells, an underground complex filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops. This unique space has a fascinating history, having once served as prison cells and an air raid shelter during World War Two. Harry Hall, the current owner of Sunbridge Wells, expressed his excitement about being featured on the BBC and emphasized the importance of showcasing Bradford in a positive light. He believes that it is crucial for people to see the beautiful buildings and vibrant culture that Bradford has to offer. The City Vaults pub is yet another location that plays a significant role in Virdee. This former bank has been serving drinks to locals for over 30 years and features stunning Art Deco glass and wrought ironwork, including a beautiful spiral staircase. Richard Cullen, the head of marketing for City Vaults, shared his enthusiasm about the pub being featured in a primetime BBC drama, stating that it is a fantastic opportunity to showcase what the City Vaults has to offer. Before the first episode aired, AA Dhand expressed his desire to highlight Bradford during its year as the UK City of Culture. He emphasized the importance of using local talent and locations to create a production that reflects the contrast between the old and new aspects of Bradford. Dhand believes that viewers will appreciate the blend of historical sites and the city's fresh, colorful, and vibrant modern features. He stated, 'Bradford is a really beautiful city. ' Virdee airs on BBC One every Monday at 9 PM, and all episodes are available for streaming online.