Homes made famous by popular TV shows are attracting hundreds of tourists daily, leading to both challenges and opportunities for residents. Kate Fox, who lives in a house featured in Emmerdale, reported issues with people entering her home during filming in her West Yorkshire village of Esholt, and still experiences inappropriate behaviour from visitors.
Similarly, the creator of Breaking Bad, Vince Gilligan, urged fans to stop throwing pizzas onto the roof of the house used for Walter White's bungalow. The owner of the Sex and the City apartment erected a gate due to constant visitor activity, a measure also taken by the Breaking Bad house owners, though fans reportedly still attempt to climb the gate and throw pizzas.
However, some residents have embraced the attention. Glenda Kenyon, whose Barry home features in Gavin and Stacey, initially declined visitors but later opened her home for tours, displaying memorabilia and offering photo opportunities. She welcomed 168 busloads of people last year, finding renewed purpose and social connection.
The impact extends beyond individual homes to entire areas. Richmond, where Ted Lasso is set, has seen the opening of a Ted Lasso Store and an Italian restaurant offering a "Eat like Ted" deal. Reece Kent, general manager of The Prince's Head pub, a regular spot for Lasso, reports 150 to 200 tourists daily from various countries. The pub has transformed a table into a designated fan area, becoming a popular stop on Lasso tours.