Northumberland is set to take centre stage in a brand new BBC drama, The Northumbria Mysteries, with Newcastle‑based Lonesome Pine Productions creating and filming the eight‑part series in the region. Supported by North East Screen through the North East Production Fund, the show will bring a fresh detective story to life across some of the county’s most distinctive landscapes.
Starring North East actor Robson Green, the series follows Joe Ruby, a jack‑of‑all‑trades whose past catches up with him as he becomes entangled in a series of mysteries. Set entirely in the region, the drama promises to showcase Northumberland’s unique character – both in its landscapes and its communities – while highlighting the strength of storytelling rooted here.
The production marks another significant moment for the North East following the BBC’s renewed commitment to the region through their MOU, which extends its collaboration with local partners through to 2027. For companies like Lonesome Pine, now one of 8 North East businesses regularly commissioned for television — a number that has quadrupled in recent years — it reflects the growing scale and ambition of projects being developed locally.
Support from the North East Production Fund is enabling productions such as The Northumbria Mysteries to base more of their work in the region, drawing on local crew, facilities and expertise. With more high‑end scripted series choosing to film here, the Fund continues to help anchor projects that both celebrate and strengthen the North East’s creative identity.
Gayle Woodruffe – Operations Director, North East Screen:
Lonesome Pine’s Lesley Douglas has made a real commitment to the North East since returning to the region and has not only brought drama from 5 but now our first homegrown BBC drama in the shape of The Northumbrian Mysteries. It’s a real pleasure to support them not only with the North East Production Fund but also with our joint ambition around skills and to find the very best locations for what I’m sure will be a great success. Looking forward to working with them on many more north east ventures.
The Northumbria Mysteries adds a compelling new chapter to the region’s expanding screen portfolio – bringing new drama, new opportunities and a fresh spotlight on the North East’s world‑class talent and locations.
