The wait is finally over for fans of Lisa McGee, the creative force behind the beloved comedy Derry Girls. Her brand-new series, How to Get to Heaven From Belfast, has officially landed on Netflix today, February 12, 2026 . This eight-part comedy-thriller takes viewers on a wild, dangerous, and funny ride through Ireland as three childhood friends try to solve the mystery surrounding a former classmate’s death .
Given that the story is rooted in Northern Ireland, the filming locations play a huge role in setting the mood. While the characters travel across the country, the production crew set up camp in various spots to bring this darkly comic adventure to life. Here is a look at where the series was shot.
Filming Kicks Off in Belfast in Summer 2024
Production for How to Get to Heaven From Belfast officially began in July 2024 . The crew started work right in the heart of the action, with Belfast serving as the primary base for the shoot. The city, which is also the home base for the three main characters in the show, provided the perfect backdrop for the series .
Lisa McGee, who grew up in Derry, has always been passionate about telling stories set in her home country. Reuniting with Derry Girls director Michael Lennox and producer Brian J. Falconer, the team spent the summer of 2024 capturing the essence of Northern Ireland . While specific street locations in Belfast haven’t been detailed, the city’s energy is expected to be woven throughout the early episodes.
The Harbourview Hotel in Carnlough Gets a Makeover
One of the most confirmed and talked-about locations is the Harbourview Hotel in the scenic coastal village of Carnlough, County Antrim . This hotel, formerly known as The Londonderry Arms, was transformed by the production team to become the fictional “Knockdara Hotel” in the series .
The hotel’s co-owner, Adrian McLaughlin, shared details about the extensive month-long transformation that took place in July 2024. The crew did not just film a few quick scenes; they completely changed the look of the place.
“They used the reception desk, The Coach House restaurant, bedrooms, the whole facade at the front was changed and painted into like an old Donegal pub from the 1930s-40s. They repainted inside, put new curtains up, the whole thing … the attention to detail was phenomenal to see,” Adrian explained .
Fans with a sharp eye will likely recognize the hotel’s structure, even though it has since been refurbished to its original state. The location is significant in the plot, serving as the “creepy” small-town hotel run by Ardal O’Hanlon‘s character, Seamus . It is the place where the friends start to suspect that something is terribly wrong.
To celebrate the show’s release, the Harbourview Hotel is embracing its moment in the spotlight. They are offering a special “Knockdara” menu and cocktails, and guests can even request to stay in a room that was featured in the series .
A Trip Back to Derry and Across Donegal
For Lisa McGee, returning to her roots was a key part of the production. The creator recently revealed that many scenes were shot in her hometown of Derry and across the border in Donegal . This mix of locations adds to the “odyssey” feel of the show, as the characters—Saoirse (Roísín Gallagher), Robyn (Sinéad Keenan), and Dara (Caoilfhionn Dunne)—travel through Ireland to piece together the truth.
Bringing the production to Derry also allowed McGee to cast some familiar local faces. Fellow Derry women Bronagh Gallagher and Saoirse-Monica Jackson (who starred in Derry Girls) have roles in the series . In fact, the trailer released in January 2026 showed a quick glimpse of Saoirse-Monica Jackson eating ice cream while dressed in a sailor’s uniform, confirming her cameo appearance .
The Story Behind the Scenes
How to Get to Heaven From Belfast has had an interesting journey to the screen. It was first announced back in August 2023 as a project for Channel 4 . However, due to rising costs and changes in editorial direction, the series moved to Netflix in March 2024 .
The shift to the global streaming platform allowed McGee to bring her story to a much wider audience. Describing the show, McGee said:
“This is the show I’ve always wanted to make; a mash‑up of my two favourite genres, mystery and comedy. We want to keep you guessing and keep you laughing” .
The series is produced by Hat Trick Productions, the same company behind Derry Girls, ensuring a consistent quality in storytelling and humor . With a cast that also includes Emmett J. Scanlan, Michelle Fairley, and Natasha O’Keeffe, the show is packed with talent .
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How to Watch and Where to Spot the Locations
All eight episodes of How to Get to Heaven From Belfast are now streaming globally on Netflix . Each episode runs for approximately 47 minutes .
For viewers in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and India, the series is available to stream right now. As you watch, keep an eye out for the transformed Harbourview Hotel in Carnlough and the familiar streets of Derry and Belfast. The landscapes of Northern Ireland are not just a background; they are a character in this dark, hilarious, and thrilling ride.
Early reviews have been positive, with The Guardian giving it four out of five stars, calling it a must-watch for the year .
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