Taggart

The UK’s longest running Scottish detective drama created by Edinburgh born Glen Chadler tells the story of main character Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Jim Taggart played by Mark McManus until his death in 1994. After this the show was fronted by Taggart’s sidekick Mike Jardine, played by James MacPherson, then with DCI Matt Burke portrayed by Alex Norton.

The television series was previously known as “Killer” when it first aired in 1983, however it later goes by name of “Taggart”. Viewers might also know the show from its famous catchphrase of “There’s been a murder”. The television drama mixes gritty urban crime with a touch of melancholy. The show has also featured cameos from a range of stars, including Robert Carlyle, Annette Crosbie, Alan Cumming and Dougray Scott.

Taggart Film Locations in Edinburgh

The drama was filmed largely with a focus on Glasgow as it was portraying the mean streets of the city, however the show does venture across the M8 to Edinburgh. The episode ‘A Taste of Money’ sees Inspector Matt Burke taking a trip to Edinburgh to question a suspect. It’s here that viewers get a glimpse of the Edinburgh skyline’s at dusk which include the Balmoral clock tower and Calton Hill. Towards the end of the episode shows prominent scenes being filmed in the Royal Mile and Grassmarket area. Viewers are able to see attractions such as Edinburgh Castle and St Giles Cathedral along with famous restaurant The Witchery Restaurant.

In the beginning of the episode ‘Trust’ we again see Inspector Matt Burke head back to Edinburgh to attend a conference at Dynamic Earth. The episode shows a scene of the impressive exterior architecture of the Scottish Parliament (pictured above).

Situated in the Old Town of Edinburgh, the Grassmarket is one of the liveliest areas in the city, with many historic and unique bars, restaurant and shops to explore. From the Grassmarket Square, take a walk up Victoria Street and visitors will be able to admire the colourful buildings here.

Edinburgh’s famous Michelin starred restaurant, The Witchery, is situated on the Royal Mile and only a short walk from Edinburgh Castle. This fine dining restaurant has medieval themes to reflect the heritage of the Old Town area.

One of Edinburgh’s famous attractions is the Dynamic Earth located in Holyrood Park, which provide a great day out for all the family to enjoy all things about earth. The venue also has spaces available for conference use.

Scotland’s devolved Parliament Building is also located in the Holyrood area, and was formally opened in 1999. The famous building was designed by Spanish architecture Enric Miralles. The concept of the building design was said to be based on from either upturned boats along the Scottish coastline to the delicate flower paintings of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

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