The highly anticipated second season of Rivals has premiered on Disney+, captivating audiences not only with its compelling drama but also its stunning locations scattered across Gloucestershire.
Set once again in the picturesque Cotswolds backdrop of Rutshire, the series delves deeper into the turbulent lives of its sophisticated characters as rival television franchises clash fiercely.
According to Disney, “The battle for the Central South West television franchise reaches fever pitch as the war between Corinium and Venturer enters a dangerous new phase. Tony Baddingham, more ruthless than ever, is determined to dismantle his rivals piece-by-piece, weaponizing scandal and manipulating those closest to him to maintain his grip on power. Amidst the hedonistic glamour of 80s excess, personal lives spiral into chaos with marriages fracturing, illicit affairs threatening families, and buried secrets igniting explosive consequences. Loyalties are tested and hearts broken as the true cost of war is revealed.”
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Fans have spotted multiple iconic locations during filming. Emily Atack, who plays Sarah Stratton, shared behind-the-scenes photos in Bristol, confirming the city as a key filming hub. Notable Bristol landmarks featured include The Cosy Club and the Harbour Hotel on Corn Street.
Meanwhile, EastEnders star Danny Dyer (Freddie Jones) and Alex Hassell (Rupert Campbell-Black) were seen filming at the Beaufort Polo Club in Berkeley, Gloucestershire, highlighting the polo sport’s significance in the series—an homage to Dame Jilly Cooper’s original Rutshire Chronicles novels.
Production was also evident at Gloucestershire’s magnificent Berkeley Castle and nearby towns, offering a majestic and authentic setting that enriches the series’ period drama ambiance.
In addition, David Tennant, starring as Lord Baddingham alongside Claire Rushbrook as Lady Baddingham, was filmed in Corsham, Wiltshire. The town’s main street was lovingly transformed to evoke a 1980s Cotswolds aesthetic, complete with retro shopfronts.
The first three episodes of Rivals Season 2 are now available to stream on Disney+, with new episodes released weekly, continuing to captivate viewers with thrilling drama and picturesque scenery.