The Bay Season 5 – Release Date, Cast and Where to Watch

The ITV crime drama The Bay returned for its fifth season in March 2025, bringing DS Jenn Townsend back to the screen for a complex new case. Here is everything you need to know about season 5, from release dates and cast to the central plot and critical reception.

When Is The Bay Season 5 Release Date and Where to Watch?

• Season 5 premiered on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 9 PM BST on ITV1 and ITVX.
• All six episodes became available as a complete box set on ITVX from March 2, 2025.
• Episodes aired across two weeks: Week 1 (March 2-4) and Week 2 (March 9-11).
• The season is not available on Netflix; UK viewers can stream it on ITVX.
• US viewers can watch on BritBox, while purchase options are available on Prime Video and Apple TV.
• Shaun Evans directed the season.

Who Is in the Cast of The Bay Season 5?

Marsha Thomason returns as DS Jenn Townsend, reprising her role for the third time after taking over from Morven Christie in season 3. The season also introduces several new faces and sees some familiar ones depart.

Returning and New Cast Members

Notable cast members include Olwen May as DC Louise “Lou” Aren, a seasoned detective seconded from Lancaster. Ceallach Spellman plays Bradley Dawson, David Troughton appears as Tommy Campbell, and Stephen Wight takes on the role of Craig Ashworth.

Key Absence

Thomas Law does not return for season 5, as he has returned to his role in EastEnders.

What Is the Plot of The Bay Season 5 Episode 1?

The season opens with the discovery of 23-year-old university student Hannah, found dead on the edge of the docks in Morecambe. DS Jenn Townsend returns to the MIU following the death of her father, but she must set aside her own grief to support Hannah’s bitterly divided family. As the investigation unfolds, the case is complicated by the arrival of a new Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) who is called in to lead the team.

Episode Structure

The season consists of 6 episodes. Episode 5 marks a significant turning point, as the new SIO arrives to take charge of the MIU team. Throughout the season, Jenn’s family feels the full weight of the grief she has been trying to contain.

What Are the Reviews and Ratings for The Bay Season 5?

Critical reception for season 5 has been measured. On Rotten Tomatoes, the season holds a score of 74%, described as a “British Detective Series.” The series has maintained strong audience interest across its five-season run. An official 30-second trailer was released ahead of the season, offering a preview of the drama and family conflicts central to the new case.

Is The Bay Season 5 Worth Watching?

Based on available reviews, season 5 maintains the gritty yet character-driven tone that has defined the series since 2019. The emotional depth added by Jenn’s personal storyline has been noted as a highlight.

Will There Be a The Bay Season 6?

As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a sixth season of The Bay. The series has been consistently renewed in the past, but whether season 5 marks the end or if a season 6 will follow remains unconfirmed.

Fans can catch up on previous seasons on ITVX in the UK or via BritBox in some regions. The series first premiered in March 2019 and has maintained a steady audience through five seasons. For more on British crime dramas, see our guide to the best British crime dramas of 2025.

Timeline of The Bay Season 5 Development

1. 2019: The Bay series 1 premieres on ITV.
2. 2020: Series 2 airs.
3. 2021: Series 3 airs.
4. 2022: Series 4 airs.
5. July 2023: Filming for series 5 begins.
6. March 2, 2025: Series 5 premieres on ITV and ITVX.

What Is Confirmed and What Remains Uncertain About The Bay Season 5?

Background and Context: The Bay as a Series

The Bay has been a staple ITV crime drama since 2019, set in the seaside town of Morecambe. Produced by Tall Story Pictures and distributed by ITV Studios Global Entertainment, the series distinguishes itself from other UK crime dramas with its focus on family liaison officers and its distinctive coastal setting. The shift to a new lead female detective in season 3, with Marsha Thomason taking over from Morven Christie, was generally well-received by audiences.

Season 5 continues the format of a single case across the season. The show’s tone remains gritty yet character-driven, dealing with personal loss for the protagonist. Unlike many UK dramas, The Bay season 5 is not available on Netflix, streaming exclusively on ITVX in the UK and on Knowledge Network in Canada. For a deeper look at how ITVX is shaping UK streaming, read our analysis of ITVX’s 2025 lineup.

What Do the Official Sources Say About The Bay Season 5?

“Episode 1 – DS Jenn Townsend returns to the MIU following her father’s death, but soon has to put her grief aside when a new case challenges the team.”

— ITV.com episode page

“It was renewed for a fifth series and filming began in July 2023. The fifth series aired in 2025.”

— Wikipedia

“Family liaison officer Jenn Townsend investigates cases of missing persons and murder in the British seaside town of Morecambe.”

— YouTube trailer (Knowledge Network)

What’s Next for The Bay?

For now, season 5 episodes continue to be available on ITVX as a complete box set. Fans can catch up on previous seasons on ITVX in the UK or via BritBox in some regions. International viewers should check local broadcasters, such as Knowledge Network in Canada, for availability. Stay tuned for official announcements regarding a potential sixth season.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Bay Season 5