The BBC police drama Hope Street has led to a rise in tourists visiting Donaghadee, County Down, according to people living and working in the town.

Filming of the programme, set in the fictional Port Devine, began in 2021 in the coastal town and features its harbour and lighthouse regularly.

Kathryn Strain, a member of the Chunky Dunkers sea swimming group, said visitors from cruise ships docking in Belfast now travel to Donaghadee to see the real locations. She added that she appears as an extra in some episodes.

Fellow swimmer Bridie McElhill said the show has put Donaghadee on the map and brings people to seek out film sites.

At the Stormy Cup cafe, manager Brooke Pennick described a buzz during early filming, with locals gathering to watch. She now serves more tourists keen to understand the production process.

Sarah Cochrane, general manager of Pier 36, a pub used as the drama's fictional Commodore venue, said the business has welcomed visitors from the United States and Australia who have watched the series.

A feature film, One of Our Own – A Hope Street Film, is scheduled for cinema release in Northern Ireland in September, followed by wider UK screenings in October 2026. The film stars Finnian Garbutt, who played police constable Ryan Power and died in April from skin cancer.