Netflix viewers bugged by 'glaring mistake' in hit show set in Edinburgh

Daily Record

03-06-2025

Edinburgh locals have been left annoyed after sitting down to watch Netflix's Department , which was filmed across the capital
Edinburgh residents have been left less than impressed after tuning into Netflix's new detective series Department Q.
The show, which was shot in the heart of Edinburgh and East Lothian, premiered on May 29 and has quickly become a hot topic among locals.
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The bone of contention for many Edinburgh natives is the series' reference to a fictional location known as Leith Park, which they insist doesn't exist.
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Despite being filmed at various real locations such as Leith Links and the Calders, the show's creators opted to rename a well-known spot, much to the annoyance of local viewers.
The switch from 'links' to 'park' was likely made to cater to an international audience unfamiliar with Scottish terminology for open spaces, reports Edinburgh Live.
Edinburgh residents haven't shied away from voicing their irritation online. One viewer expressed on X: "Watched the first episode, looks good."
However, they added: "It really bugged me when they kept saying Leith Park - which one Keddie, Vici or what it probably is the Links. Irrational but bugged me."
Another said: "Just finished episode one and thoroughly enjoyed it (except for the references to Leith Park which made my ears bleed)."
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And another said: "Leith Park really annoyed me!"
Edinburgh comedian Jo Caulfield shared other aspects of the show that bothered her husband while watching the hit series set in their home city. She tweeted: "Watching Dept Q (set in Edinburgh and Leith) with husband.
"HUSBAND: 'That bus doesn't go to Leith. And that street don't lead to the city council building.' ME: 'Shhhhh.' HUSBAND: 'And that bar is nowhere near that church.'"
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The filming of the series took place in spring last year, with production taking over various locations including the West End, Portobello, and FirstStage Studios in Leith.
Starring Matthew Goode, Chloe Pirrie, Kelly Macdonald, Alexej Manvelov, Shirley Henderson, Kate Dickie among other notable actors, the show has garnered significant attention.
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After its release on Netflix on Thursday, May 29, Department Q quickly climbed to the top spot in the streaming platform's TV section.
Variety praised the show as a "riveting watch", saying: ""Dept Q is deeply intense and complex."
"Dark with neo-noir elements, the series' central mysteries are riveting, but its characters make it a standout."
Entertainment Weekly lauded lead actor Matthew Goode's performance as "grumpy perfection", adding: "The mystery comes to a satisfying - if a bit convoluted - conclusion, and Frank certainly leaves things open for more grim (and grimly funny) adventures with his Dept Q misfits down the line."