Bergerac has become a beloved symbol of Jersey, evoking images of picturesque landscapes, charming locals, and of course, the iconic detective himself. “You can’t mention Jim Bergerac without someone bringing up the island,” shares Damien Molony, who steps into the titular role in the forthcoming UKTV reboot. “Jersey is not just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right. The stunning weather, the warmth of the people, and the island’s unique quirks make it endlessly captivating. My family and I have fallen in love with this place. This is my third visit since filming concluded, and I can’t wait to return.”
What’s Next?
Just as Molony has developed a fondness for Jersey, so too did viewers when Bergerac first graced our screens in 1981. Created by the talented Robert Banks Stewart, the original BBC series ran for a decade, captivating over 13 million viewers at its peak and significantly boosting tourism to the island. Excitement for the reboot is palpable among locals, many of whom have cherished memories tied to the original series. Everyone seems to have a story to share—whether they appeared as an extra, contributed behind the scenes, or simply enjoyed a pint with John Nettles at their favorite pub.
As a local, my parents, who moved to Jersey in the 1980s, are no exception. “I was an extra in the episode A Cry in the Night,” recounts my mother, Kim Cope. “They needed someone to fill the background, so the other bank tellers and I drew straws, and I was the lucky one. I remember John Nettles filming a scene in the bank lobby, and then the camera panned to me at my desk in my uniform. It was so much fun to be a part of the show. We always loved watching Bergerac, and seeing myself on screen was a thrill. It’s wonderful that it’s returning to showcase Jersey’s beauty. Though honestly, in real life, Bergerac wouldn’t have much work to do here, as there aren’t many murders!”
Meanwhile, my father, Peter, 69, a lift engineer, had his own brush with fame while working with the stunt team on the episode What Dreams May Come, where a character dramatically fell down a lift shaft. “I spent a week on set assisting the stuntman,” he reminisces. “I worked closely with John Nettles, who was a fantastic guy—always took the time for the locals, and we were happy to help. It became routine to see the crew filming around the island.”
It’s a testament to how much the locals cherish the show that the premiere, held at Jersey’s only cinema in St. Helier, drew crowds eager to see the stars walk the red carpet, including Pippa Haywood and Philip Glenister. Speaking at the event, Glenister—who appeared in the original series and now plays construction CEO Arthur Wakefield—shared, “I have a deep connection to the Channel Islands, especially Jersey. It’s always a pleasure to be here. Being part of both the original and the new series is a special moment for me.”
Notable Jersey Locations from the New Series
Here are some stunning locations featured in the new series, along with Damien Molony’s personal favorites and a few local tips:
St. Helier
St. Helier, the vibrant capital of Jersey, has taken center stage in both the original and new Bergerac series. With its scenic marina, eclectic boutiques, and historic architecture, the town sets a breathtaking backdrop for many key scenes. A highlight is Liberation Square, a landmark honoring the island’s liberation from Nazi occupation, which serves as a focal point of local pride. Be sure to try the locally-caught seafood at the recently opened Pêtchi (a Jèrriais term meaning “to try to catch a fish”). After that, explore The Harbour Gallery, showcasing the creative works of Jersey artists, and then unwind with a cocktail at The Porter’s Store, an upscale bar located beneath the Pomme D’Or Hotel.
Royal Square and Central Market, St Helier
Located in the heart of St Helier, the Central Market has been a cornerstone of island life for over 400 years. The current Victorian-era structure, completed in 1882, is a sensory delight, featuring stalls brimming with fresh produce, fragrant flowers, and artisanal goods. Just a short stroll away, Royal Square houses the Royal Court and States Assembly, Jersey’s equivalent of Parliament. The area is surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and pubs, making it a lively hub, especially on Saturdays when the local market takes over the square. For a taste of island hospitality, grab a pint at The Cock and Bottle, a beloved local pub, before indulging in authentic Spanish tapas at Sangria.
Mont Orgueil Castle
Hop on LibertyBus Route 1 (£9 for a day pass) from St Helier to reach the stunning Mont Orgueil Castle, a majestic fortress built by King John of England in 1204 to defend against French invasion. This dramatic landmark features prominently in many episodes of both the new and original Bergerac series. Dive into the castle’s fascinating 800-year history with a guided tour (£19; jerseyheritage.org). Below the castle lies Gorey Village, one of Jersey’s most charming spots, complete with pastel-colored cottages and a delightful array of alfresco restaurants and hotels, which has quickly become a favorite of Damien Molony.
St Ouen’s Bay
Showcased beautifully in both Bergerac and its reboot, St Ouen’s Bay is a true gem of Jersey’s rugged landscape. This tranquil stretch of coastline, located near the island’s south-west corner and just a stone’s throw from the iconic Corbière Lighthouse, is famous for its water sports and breathtaking sunsets. Boards can be rented from thesurfyard.com. The bay is also popular among walkers, with scenic coastal paths and sand dunes offering panoramic views of the Channel. Additionally, you’ll find Les Mielles Golf Course situated a little further back from the beach.
St Brelade’s Bay
St. Brelade’s Bay is a family favorite, known for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. The nearby St Brelade’s Bay Hotel, which also features in Bergerac, has recently introduced a new menu of Bergerac-inspired cocktails. The Beach Club, a beachfront restaurant, is well-known for its fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a meal after a day in the sun.
The Old Courthouse Inn
Overlooking St Aubin’s Harbour, The Old Courthouse Inn, once known as “The Royal Barge” in the original series, is a popular pub and restaurant. Today, it serves delicious food and drinks, including fresh Jersey oysters and local ale-battered fish and chips, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed meal while soaking in the harbor views. The venue also offers charming rooms for an overnight stay. On Saturdays, a lively local market sets up just across the way, selling fresh produce. Le Petit Train tourist train stops just outside the nearby town hall, shuttling passengers on a delightful tour to St Helier while sharing a bit of local history along the way (£6 child return, £9 adult, littletrain.co.uk).
Bouley Bay
According to Molony, Bouley Bay was the site of his first scene as Jim Bergerac, filmed at 4 a.m. “The cast and crew were exhausted, but as we watched the sunrise, we all knew it had been worth it,” he recalls. This picturesque cove on Jersey’s northern coastline is popular among sea swimmers and is home to the Bouley Bay Dive Centre (scubadivingjersey.com). It offers tranquil views at any time of day. A three-mile trek along the cliff path from the bay’s crystal-clear waters leads to the charming harbor of Rozel, where you can reward your efforts with a bacon roll at The Hungry Man, a local favorite.
Les Écréhous
“While on the island, I had an afternoon off, so my family and I took a boat trip out to Les Écréhous, a rocky archipelago six miles from Jersey,” says Molony. “I’d never seen dolphins before, and suddenly a dozen bottlenose dolphins appeared to swim around the boat. It was an unforgettable experience.” Les Écréhous is a unique network of reefs and small tidal islands that offers a welcome escape from modern life, with views of nearby France in the distance. Enjoy swimming in the shallow bays or pack a picnic to enjoy on the sandy beaches, and keep an eye out for seals that often frolic in the area. Boat trips to Les Écréhous are available from £43 through Island RIB Voyages (islandribvoyages.je).
Bergerac is set to premiere on U and U&DRAMA from Thursday, 27 February.
Travel Information
Flights to Jersey are available from various UK airports, operated by British Airways, easyJet, and Blue Islands. Ferries connect from Poole, Portsmouth, and Plymouth via Brittany Ferries or DFDS. For more information, visit jersey.com.
