Famed for its beauty, with sandy beaches and quaint fishing villages lining the dramatic coastline, Cornwall is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a picture-perfect stay. Its appeal hasn’t gone unnoticed though, with many films and television shows making the most of Cornwall’s natural beauty, with everything from famous beaches to the Eden Project setting the scene. Ready to step into your favourite character’s shoes? Here are some of our favourite places to stay near an iconic filming location in Cornwall, from Poldark to Port Isaac!
Charlestown
Step back in time to Poldark’s Cornwall on a holiday in Charlestown, an unspoilt Cornish village with an idyllic Grade II listed harbour. You may have spotted this iconic harbour, with its impressive tall ships, in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland, Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean, and, of course, the famous Poldark TV series. Used in various Poldark scenes, including the setting of Truro harbour and where Ross sets sail for the Isles of Scilly, this wonderful village is perfect for learning more about Cornish history -, a visit to the Shipwreck Treasure Museum is a must for the history buffs!
Immerse yourself in coastal village life with a stay at All Aboard, a picturesque cottage just a short walk from the harbour and beach. Foodies will love the restaurants, which includes the likes of famed steakhouse The Longstore, and The Boathouse, where you can sit back and relax with a view.
Port Isaac
The pretty village of Port Isaac has long been used as the residence and surgery of the beloved series Doc Martin, bringing fans to the coastal haven for years. Many people have fallen in love with the charm of the village, with its narrow alleys and winding streets dotted with delightful little shops and cafés.
Not only famed for the quirky medical series, Port Isaac is also home to the first Fisherman’s Friends, a movie set in the village that tells the true story of a group of fishermen who made it big with a viral song. Many of the film’s scenes were set in The Golden Lion pub, where you can tuck into some traditional pub grub with a stunning sea view today.
Stay at nearby Cider Barn, a luxury haven for two, and indulge in a Michelin star meal at one of the two restaurants in the village, before returning to this stylish barn conversion for a night in front of the fire.
St Michael’s Mount
The tidal island of St Michael’s Mount was used as Driftmark, home of House Velaryon in House of the Dragon, the prequel to HBO’s famous series Game of Thrones. The island castle features as ‘High Tide Castle’, allowing you to climb the very same steps as the Tagaryens, before you take in the natural beauty of the south coast from the top of the castle - it’s the perfect look out spot!
Enjoy a lookout of your own with a stay at Paardeberg, situated in Marazion, just in front of the beach, meaning you can enjoy 24/7, uninterrupted views. This period townhouse offers a chance for all generations to relax and unwind, complete with iconic views of St Michael’s Mount. If you are a House of the Dragon fan, then a day trip to the Lizard Peninsula will deliver you to the turquoise waters and white sand at Kynance Cove, which was used as the setting of the Stepstones. Steeped in natural beauty, this picturesque cove is the perfect wild swimming spot on those balmy summer days!
St Ives
Cornwall serves as a backdrop to many Rosemunde Pilcher films and television series, which are popular in Germany attracting 7 million viewers a week! The seaside town of St Ives serves as one of the filming locations, with its quaint cobbled streets and choice of five beautiful beaches acting as the perfect setting. One of our cottages, Friendship Cottage, even featured in the series. Situated right on the harbour, it’s ideally located to explore St Ives, which was recently voted ‘Best seaside town’ by The Telegraph.
Blockbuster Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides also used St Ives in part of the film, Johnny Depp is rumoured to be a big fan of a pint in The Sloop Inn! Looking for a pirate -inspired getaway? Mermaid’s Rest offers the perfect location to enjoy views of the harbour. Situated on Fore Street, with all the shops and restaurants to choose from on the doorstep, Mermaid’s Rest provides the perfect break for two.
Newquay
Not only famed for the surfing and music festival Boardmasters, but Newquay is also home to the 1990 film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Witches. Parts of it were filmed at The Headland, a hotel in Newquay, overlooking Fistral beach. Scenes were filmed in the hotel bedrooms and outside on the cliff edge. Every October the hotel likes to celebrate the film with a spooky afternoon tea, featuring the Grand High Witch herself!
If you are looking to visit your own slice of Westeros, take a trip to Holywell Bay, around three miles from Newquay. The beach has miles of golden sand and a distinct rocky stack in the sea, the perfect rugged filming location for the House of Dragon series.
Want to explore more of this stretch of the north coast? Situated in a desirable position with views across Fistral beach and Newquay golf course, 2 The Rocket offers a luxurious break for up to six guests. The sea view balcony is perfect for catching the sunset whilst sipping your favourite drink.
Experience Cornwall’s filmic past yourself, with an unforgettable stay in one of our beautiful holiday cottages, from ocean-side boltholes to unique cottages that are worthy of their own starring role.
Tags: Beaches | Charlestown | Newquay | Port Isaac | St Ives | St Michael's Mount |