Oslo's Cinematic Spotlight in Netflix's Detective Hole
Netflix's gripping crime drama Detective Hole has quickly become a viewer favourite, with audiences not only captivated by its suspenseful plot but also by its atmospheric setting. The series, adapted from Jo Nesbø's acclaimed Harry Hole novels, transforms Norway's capital, Oslo, into a central character, filmed extensively across the city between May and December 2024.
Historic Pubs and Public Baths: Key Filming Sites
One of the most iconic locations featured in the show is Restaurant Schrøder in St. Hanshaugen. Described in the books as Harry Hole's second home, this classic pub, which dates back to 1925 and serves traditional Norwegian fare, appears multiple times as the detective meets witnesses and pieces together clues in his toughest case yet.
Another standout setting is the Frognerbadet Open-Air Public Bath on Middelthuns gate 28. With its distinctive diving tower and two swimming pools, this location plays a crucial role in scenes where Harry helps Oleg Fauke overcome a fear of heights. Notably, the bath is currently closed for renovations until 2027 and is typically only open to the public during summer months.
Cultural Landmarks and Scenic Backdrops
The production also utilised The National Theatre in central Oslo for scenes involving director Willy Barli's production of My Fair Lady. This venue, with its main stage opened in 1988 and a modern Amphitheatre Stage, offers guided tours in both Norwegian and English, adding a layer of cultural depth to the series.
For more opulent scenes, Bogstad Manor was chosen to film a luxurious dinner party. This historic house, with items dating to the 1750s, features a museum, farm animals, a children's play area, and a park, providing a rich backdrop for the drama.
Additionally, Vigeland Sculpture Park in Frogner Park, home to over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, served as an impressive location for key scenes. Author Jo Nesbø has expressed his admiration for this park, calling it one of his favourite places in Oslo.
Behind the Scenes: Production Insights
According to Netflix's Tudum, Detective Hole was filmed in over 160 locations across Oslo over 113 days, making it one of several international productions shot in the city, alongside films like Christopher Nolan's Tenet and the Harry Hole movie The Snowman.
Director and executive producer Øystein Karlsen emphasised Oslo's importance, stating, "Having been a fan of the books for years, I always felt that Oslo on its own is such an important character in the stories. It has the perfect mixture of rich and poor, dark and light, old and new, to balance the darkness and suspense in the universe that is Harry's." He described Jo Nesbø's version of Oslo as a "Gotham version," enhanced in the series to amplify its atmospheric quality.
Other notable locations reported by sources like Primetimer include the Grønland police station, St Hanshaugen Park, and the Dagslys studios in Gjerdrum, further showcasing the city's diverse urban landscape.
Detective Hole, starring Tobias Santelmann as the troubled police officer, is currently streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to explore Oslo's streets through this thrilling crime narrative.
