Arnos Vale Cemetery has once again played a starring role in a major television production, this time as a location in The Forsytes, a new six-part drama adapted from John Galsworthy’s Nobel Prize-winning novels.

Produced by Mammoth Screen (Poldark) and adapted by acclaimed screenwriter Debbie Horsfield, The Forsytes began filming in Bristol in May 2024, with extensive support from Bristol Film Office. Among the many beautiful Bristol locations used, Arnos Vale Cemetery stood out with a dramatic transformation of its Grade II* listed Anglican Chapel.

In a unique creative twist, the chapel was converted into a boxing ring for one of the show’s key scenes. Ann Fiddler, CEO of the Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust, explains:

“In order to get the shots they needed, we had the ceiling lights removed. When you watch the final scenes, you’ll spot our tall, elegant windows in the background. Arnos Vale Cemetery is unique – as a historic site, as a place for nature, and a green space for people to walk. As a charity, the income from filming provides a significant boost and helps keep the Cemetery accessible to the more than 500,000 visitors we welcome every year. It also raises our profile, for potential visitors and location managers, really showcasing what we have to offer. Bristol Film Office are incredibly helpful in connecting us with productions and we are very grateful for their support.”

The use of the chapel is a stunning example of how Arnos Vale continues to attract film and television productions, highlighting the site's versatility and architectural beauty. With its rich heritage and atmospheric setting, Arnos Vale Cemetery provides filmmakers with a location that is both visually striking and steeped in history.

The Forsytes premieres on Channel 5 at 9pm on Monday 20th October 2025 and will air on MASTERPIECE in the US in 2026.