BBC Only Fools and Horses fans left baffled over ‘secret’ filming location 21 years on from final special

Fans of the beloved BBC sitcom Only Fools and Horses have been left gobsmacked by a surprising revelation after the show was synonymous with South London’s Peckham.

Over the 20 years, the show was on the broadcaster, many became familiar with the surroundings and the characters – noticing any slight change across the series.

However, fans were recently left stunned when they found out that the show was largely filmed in Bristol, hundreds of miles away from its supposed setting.

This unexpected fact has come to light 21 years after the final special aired, challenging viewers’ long-held perceptions of the iconic series.

While some scenes were indeed shot in West London, a significant portion of the production took place in the West Country from the late 1980s until the show’s conclusion in 2003.

Bristol’s Whitemead House tower block features prominently as Nelson Mandela House, the Trotters’ fictional home, with the lock-up garages where Del Boy and Rodney stored their goods can be found nearby.

In the Ashton area of Bristol, the Miles Motor Company stood in for Boycie’s car showroom, Smiley Miley, as well as The Ashton Gate stadium car park doubling as Peckham market.

The White Horse pub in Bedminster played the role of the Nag’s Head, a central location in the series.

Meanwhile, the Broadwalk Shopping Centre on the outskirts of Bristol served as another market where Del Boy attempted to sell dubious merchandise.

Bristol’s Park Avenue served as the backdrop for the iconic Heroes and Villains episode, where the masked Trotter brothers scared off muggers attempting to steal a handbag.

The city’s Belgo restaurant was featured in the fan-favourite Yuppy Love episode, where it hosted the unforgettable scene where Del Boy, trying to impress some “sorts” in an upscale wine bar, falls through an open hatch.

These revelations have left fans astounded, challenging their perceptions of the beloved sitcom.

The show’s ability to convincingly portray South London while filming in Bristol has added a new layer of appreciation for its production.

Many have expressed their disbelief on social media, struggling to reconcile their mental image of Peckham with the reality of Bristol’s streets.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Jeremy Clarkson warns Rachel Reeves’ Budget could be ‘last straw’ for farmers in latest scathing rantBBC Shetland’s Tosh star opens up on cancellation fears: ‘Had to say an emotional goodbye!’Gogglebox stars slammed and hit with huge warning from viewers over ‘toxic’ item

Despite the surprise, fans have praised the seamless portrayal of South London life achieved by the Bristol locations.

The show’s ability to capture the essence of Peckham while filming elsewhere has been hailed as a testament to its production quality and the skill of its creators.