Britain’s film and TV by region: Devon and Cornwall
Stop 1 - Devon
Hartland Peninsula
Wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful, the Hartland Peninsula is where land and sea collide in dramatic fashion. It’s no wonder HBO picked this epic coastline as a filming location for House of the Dragon. Fans of The Salt Path will recognise these windswept cliffs, where Raynor Winn found solace and strength along the South West Coast Path. Whether your clients are hiking, exploring Hartland Abbey, or simply soaking in the views, the peninsula is Devon at its most untamed.
Exmoor
There’s a wild romance to Exmoor - a landscape of sweeping moorland, deep valleys and hidden coves. A star of The Salt Path, take a walk across its misty expanses, where wild ponies graze and ancient woodlands whisper stories of smugglers and seafarers. Climb Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor, for panoramic views across the moors and out to sea. On a clear day, it’s possible to see Wales. For a true taste of the untamed beauty, hop on an Exmoor Wildlife Safari to spot red deer and Exmoor ponies. For those that dare, cross the Tarr Steps, a mysterious ancient clapper bridge dating back to the Bronze Age, nestled in a wooded valley along the River Barle. Local legend claims the devil himself built it.
Alder Vineyard Tour
Nestled on the sun-drenched slopes of Devon, Alder Vineyard invites your clients to stroll among the vines, sip award-winning English wine, and learn the secrets behind the winemaking process. After the tour, visitors can relax in the vineyard’s café overlooking the lush Devon countryside, sampling local produce paired with their wines – cheers to that.
Dartmoor
Brooding, beautiful and just a little bit eerie, Dartmoor is the kind of place that sticks with visitors long after they’ve left. It stole the show in War Horse, where its sweeping moors and ancient tors added cinematic grandeur to Steven Spielberg’s epic – but long before Hollywood arrived, this landscape was already legend. British writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was so taken with Dartmoor’s misty mood and lurking shadows that he set his gothic masterpiece The Hound of the Baskervilles here. Your clients can walk the same trails and feel the same magic – every stone and shadow hold a tale. Seek out Wistman’s Wood, a twisted tangle of moss-covered oaks that feels straight out of folklore, or hike up Haytor for panoramic views that stretch for miles. For something a little different, take a wild swim in one of Dartmoor’s hidden river pools or go pony-spotting on the open heath. For those craving adventure, book a wild experience with Aquila Outdoor Adventures, offering guided activities from kayaking and paddleboarding to rock climbing and gorge scrambling.
South West Coast Path, Torquay
Stop off at Torquay and explore the Devon section of the South West Coast Path, showcasing some of England’s most spectacular coastal scenery. This 630-mile (1,013km) route is England’s longest national trail, stretching from Somerset to Dorset, with every turn revealing a new coastal wonder. Along the path, Hartland Quay stars in The Salt Path, with its windswept shores and rocky terrain providing a fitting backdrop for the story of resilience and survival. Wander along steep cliffs, take in far-reaching sea views, and discover hidden coves. Keep an eye out for seabirds, seals, and even dolphins playing in the surf. Whether your clients are tackling a short stroll or a challenging hike, this iconic route delivers at every turn.
Devon Sea Safari
Devon isn’t just about what lies on land. Hop aboard a sea safari and witness the county’s coastal wonders from a whole new perspective. Departing from Exmouth, where the River Exe meets the English Channel, this sea safari skirts the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dolphins, seals and seabirds could make regular appearances as your clients glide past Orcombe Point, Ladram Bay and beyond. It’s an adventure that blends wildlife, waves, and a salty breeze – pure maritime magic.
The Pig at Combe
If your clients like their meals with a side of history and a dollop of charm, The Pig at Combe is calling. This Elizabethan gem is more than just a restaurant – it’s a celebration of local flavours. Everything on the menu is grown or reared within 25 miles (40km) of the estate, so your clients know every bite tells a Devonshire tale. Secluded, and with three walled Kitchen Gardens, dining in a country house this gorgeous feels like stepping straight into a period drama.
getting around
Getting around: Driving is the easiest way to explore Devon. Depending on your clients’ destination, there are trains from Torquay Station to Newton Abbot. From there, they can change for a train to Plymouth. The nearest international airports are London Heathrow Airport and Bristol Airport.
Stop 2 - Cornwall
St Michael’s Mount
Rising dramatically from the sea, St Michael’s Mount stars in House of the Dragon, where it doubles as Driftmark’s High Tide Castle. But long before Targaryens and dragons, this tidal island was steeped in Cornish legend. Said to be where the Archangel Michael appeared to fishermen in the 5th century, it’s long been a place of pilgrimage and myth. Walk the ancient causeway, explore the medieval fortress, and uncover tales of giants, saints and seafarers in this fairytale setting.
The Camel Trail
For those who prefer adventure on two wheels, the Camel Trail offers 18 miles (29km) of scenic cycling bliss. Starting in the market town of Wenfordbridge, it follows a disused railway line through Bodmin and Wadebridge, before finishing in the harbour town of Padstow. This flat, family-friendly route winds through woodland, along the Camel Estuary, with plenty of pubs and picnic spots on the way. Don’t forget to stop in Padstow for a well-earned pasty or ice cream.
Kynance Cove
Nestled on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula, Kynance Cove boasts turquoise waters, towering cliffs and white sandy beaches. Having starred in House of the Dragon and Poldark, the cove offers scenic walks, wildlife spotting and a charming eco-friendly café. Visit during low tide to explore caves and rock formations – but do watch out for the rising tide. For those wanting to go beyond the shoreline, book a guided kayak tour from nearby Mullion or take a Lizard Peninsula wildlife walk with a local expert.
Padstow
Stop in Padstow for a well-deserved rest during a long coastal trek. The Salt Path brought this fishing village into the literary spotlight, but Padstow has always been a foodie haven. Wander the harbour, watch the boats bobbing on the tide, and tuck into some of the freshest seafood in Britain. The town is home to an array of top-notch eateries, including The Seafood Restaurant by celebrity chef Rick Stein. Your clients will also find other gems like seafood bar Prawn on the Lawn and Paul Ainsworth at No.6, a Michelin-starred delight in a Georgian townhouse. Don’t miss the annual May Day ‘Obby ‘Oss festival which is one of the oldest and most vibrant celebrations in the country.
Rick Stein Cookery School, Padstow
Ever dreamed of cooking like a celebrity chef? Rick Stein’s Cookery School offers hands-on classes where your clients can master everything from seafood suppers to perfect pastries. The school offers a variety of classes, including seafood cooking, bread making and even bespoke courses for special occasions. Your clients will learn from Rick’s expert chefs, who can guide them through the techniques and flavours that define Cornish cuisine. With views over the Camel Estuary and plenty of tastings along the way, it’s a culinary experience that’s deliciously Cornish.
Bodmin Moor
Mystical, moody, and made for adventure, Bodmin Moor provided a windswept backdrop for Poldark. Explore its granite tors, hidden waterfalls, and ancient stone circles. Feeling brave? Keep an eye out for the legendary Beast of Bodmin Moor – or just enjoy the wild beauty. For a more immersive experience, take a hike along the Bodmin Moor Circular Walk, which winds through picturesque landscapes and provides views of the moorland. If your clients are fans of history, they can explore King Arthur’s Hall, a neolithic stone structure shrouded in legend. For something a little more unexpected, your clients can embark on an alpaca trek with Moor View Alpacas an opportunity to take in panoramic views while accompanied by some of the friendly, curious animals.
Botallack Mine
Clinging to Cornwall’s rugged Tin Coast, the Botallack Mines are pure drama – and not just because they starred in Poldark. Part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic mines and their 19th century engine houses were the backdrop for Ross Poldark’s many escapades. Once a hub of Cornish mining, they now offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s industrial past, complete with narrow coastal paths and far-reaching ocean views. Managed by the National Trust, dive into the world of Poldark and British heritage.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, located near St Austell in Cornwall, is a magical 200-acre garden space that has been captivating visitors since its restoration in the 1990s. Originally developed in the 18th century, these gardens were largely forgotten until a dedicated team revived them, revealing Victorian horticultural artistry and a striking collection of different flora. Now open daily, highlights include the Jungle Garden, featuring exotic plants and towering palms, and walled gardens which showcase a variety of flowers and vegetables.
Tate St Ives
Cornwall’s artistic soul is alive and well at Tate St Ives. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this gallery celebrates the region’s creative spirit, with exhibitions showcasing modern and contemporary art inspired by the Cornish coast. In 2025, visitors can look forward to major exhibitions like Liliane Lijn: Arise Alive (24 May to 2 November 2025), a showcase of kinetic art and light sculptures by the American-born artist, and Lee Miller (2 October 2025 to 15 February 2026), a new retrospective of the trailblazing surrealist photographer’s work. Whether your clients are art aficionados or just looking for a moment of calm, Tate St Ives is a masterpiece in its own right.
Getting around
Getting around: There are direct trains from Plymouth to popular locations in Cornwall like Padstow or St Ives, with several branch lines also attached to the mainline to Penzance. The nearest international airports are London Heathrow Airport and Bristol Airport.
