ITV's "The Bay" has returned for its highly anticipated fifth season, plunging viewers back to Morecambe, Lancashire, where the idyllic seaside town serves as the backdrop for intriguing crime narratives. This season kicks off with the chilling discovery of the body of 23-year-old university student Hannah Dawson, found at Glasson Dock, sending shockwaves through the community and igniting a complex police investigation.
Marsha Thomason reprises her role as DS Jenn Townsend, leading the Major Investigation Unit (MIU) as they navigate the sensitive task of addressing Hannah's death and the family turmoil surrounding it. "When the body of a young woman is found murdered, Jenn finds herself..." remarks Catherine Oldfield, the executive producer. She adds, "Her diplomatic skills are going to be tested like never before." This personal and professional challenge emerges as Jenn also grapples with her own father's recent death.
Morecambe's stunning coastal landscapes are more than just scenery; they act as characters themselves, providing emotional weight and contrasts to the harrowing events. Cast member Daniel Ryan, portraying DI Tony Manning, reflects on the picturesque quality of Morecambe, stating, "What this show gets from Morecambe is the extraordinary location... it never fails to take my breath away when I get off the train." He emphasizes the melancholy juxtaposition of crime against the backdrop of such beauty.
This season’s narrative is gripped by intense familial conflict, as Jenn must step in to support Hannah's divided family—where unresolved issues and personal grudges loom large. The show's creator, Daragh Carville, highlights the series's emotional core: "It's not just another procedural drama; it’s about family. Divided families provide interesting narratives." The plot thickens when hidden truths about Hannah's life unravel, exposing tangled relationships and shocking secrets.
Filming locations throughout Morecambe include the police station, which is actually filmed at two different locations, with exteriors shot at the real working police station and interiors captured at a disused one in Manchester. The picturesque streets and the renowned Stone Jetty feature prominently, with sequences along the beach capturing the rugged, raw beauty of the British coastline.
Having filmed several scenes at Sunderland Point, known for its charming isolation and tidal access, the crew faced unique challenges. Olwen May, who plays DC Louise McClaren, describes it as "beautiful... we must have had the best green room view of any show ever." Ryan echoes this sentiment, adding, "When I do leave the station, my favourite bits are when we film anything along the shoreline. It’s the sea, the coast, the view of the lakes, the sheer beauty of it all." One can only wonder how these stunning visuals will impact the storytelling.
This season introduces several new characters against the familiar faces of the cast, including Neil Maskell as Steve Dawson, Hannah’s father, who finds himself embroiled in accusations and turmoil as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, attempts to shed light on Hannah's complex life result in the strained dynamics seen among family members—all of whom come under scrutiny as the investigation deepens. Marsha comments, "Jenn is dealing with so much; she isn’t on her A game because of everything going on around her."
Although the show tackles dark themes, the picturesque setting of Morecambe adds to its allure. From the stunning views of the Lake District to the lively local culture, the series showcases everything beautiful about the region. The fifth season premiered with six episodes starting on March 2, 2025, with engaging storytelling expected week after week. All past seasons are available for streaming on ITVX, inviting viewers to catch up before the current episodes.