Move over, New York—Manchester is the new mystery capital of the world!
Harlan Coben’s Missing You, Netflix’s newest crime thriller, dropped on New Year’s Day, and it’s got everyone talking.
From jaw-dropping plot twists to Manchester backdrops, the limited series serves up a feast for mystery lovers and Mancunians alike.
Adapted from the bestselling novel of the same name, Missing You takes a story rooted in the bustling streets of NYC and plants it firmly in the glorious north of England.
This move not only refreshes the narrative but also thrusts Manchester’s unique charm into the spotlight, proving the city is as much a star as its stellar cast.
Harlan Coben’s Missing You
The premise is irresistible: Detective Kat Donovan (played brilliantly by Rosalind Eleazar) has spent 11 years haunted by the sudden disappearance of her fiancé, Josh (Ashley Walters).
Life throws her a curveball when his face pops up on a dating app. What follows is a heart-pounding journey into old wounds, hidden truths, and an intricate web of secrets involving Kat’s father’s murder.
Missing You filming locations
Turner Street, Northern Quarter
The show kicks off with a party on Turner Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. Picture colourful lights strung across the old Fish Market, festive revellers, and the lively atmosphere spilling out from local haunts like The Smithfield Social. It’s the perfect opening for a series that promises plenty of drama and intrigue.
Knott Mill
Kat’s stunning flat on Little Peter Street, inside the historic Knott Mill, plays a large part in the series. Once the home of Factory Records legend Tony Wilson, the industrial loft oozes character and history.
Bolton’s Hidden Gems
The Hollywood of the North gets yet more screen time. Bolton shines in several key scenes, with Le Mans Crescent and Victoria Square providing the perfect backdrop for Kat’s investigation.
Pollen Bakery
New Islington Marina’s beloved Pollen Bakery is the site of a pivotal meeting between Kat and her ally Charlie. This cosy café, already a favorite for its incredible pastries and scenic canal views, doubles as a nerve-wracking location where secrets start to unravel.
The Askia Inn: Northern Quarter’s Freemount Pub
Drama brews in The Askia Inn, Kat’s local watering hole, which is none other than the Northern Quarter’s Freemount Pub.This hotspot sees it all— engagement parties and life-altering revelations. You’ll likely spot a corner where you’ve shared a pint or two yourself.
Manchester Art Gallery
When criminal mastermind Calligan (James Nesbitt) kidnaps Kat, it’s the iconic Manchester Art Gallery that sets the stage for their chilling showdown. With Alexander von Wagner’s Chariot Race looming in the background, the tension is as thick as the drama.
Stockport Police Station
Kat’s workplace is far from a dull, lifeless set. Stockport’s old Victorian building, once an orphanage, has been transformed into a cinematic police station. From its grand balustrade balconies to mid-century office furniture, it’s a masterclass in production design.
What’s Next for Harlan Coben on Netflix?
With a five-year deal to bring more of his novels to the platform, Missing You is just the beginning. If the success of last year’s Fool Me Once is any indication, this series is destined to become a fan favorite, drawing millions of viewers to Netflix and sparking a fresh wave of interest in Manchester.
Missing you – Your next Netflix binge
If you love a thriller that keeps you guessing, Missing You offers all the suspense, heartbreak, and jaw-dropping twists you could hope for. But it’s more than just a mystery—it’s a love letter to Manchester’s streets, landmarks, and vibrant energy. Whether you’re spotting familiar locations or immersing yourself in the drama, the series promises to entertain, surprise, and maybe even inspire your next city adventure.
So, grab a brew, hit play, and get ready to dive into the twists and turns of Missing You. One thing’s for sure—this is Manchester like you’ve never seen it before.
You can catch Missing You on Netflix by clicking here