Cornwall has featured as a memorable filming location for many incredible films and TV shows, from recent hits like Playing Nice and House of the Dragon to beloved classics like Doc Martin and Poldark. In 2025’s adaptation of Raynor Winn’s best-selling memoir, The Salt Path, Cornwall plays its most important role to date as it sets the scene for this uplifting tale of love, hope, and the healing power of nature.
Following in the footsteps of Raynor and her husband Moth (played by Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs), The Salt Path follows the story of two people who have their whole world turned upside down. With nowhere else to go, Raynor and Moth decide to walk the South West Coast Path from Minehead all the way to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Along the way, they discover kindness, inner strength, and, above all, a whole new appreciation for the astounding beauty we are so lucky to have on our doorstep.
Ready to follow in the footsteps of Raynor and Moth? Explore the many beautiful filming locations across Cornwall that feature in The Salt Path and discover for yourself the power of nature.
Fistral Beach
One of the many Cornish beaches to feature as a filming location in The Salt Path, Fistral Beach in Newquay lends its crashing waves and golden sands to the film’s lookbook. Cornwall’s rugged north coast acts as a tempestuous backdrop in the winter months, with Fistral calling to wave-watchers and surfers throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a place to pause while exploring this dramatic stretch of coastline or simply want to sit in the sun-warmed sand and listen to the soft thunder of the waves, Fistral Beach has you covered.
Port Quin
One of Cornwall’s most beautiful places, Port Quin was well chosen for a particularly touching scene in The Salt Path. Pausing for a picnic above the picturesque cove, Raynor (Gillian Anderson) and Moth (Jason Isaacs) are struck by the beauty of the setting, a feeling we can all relate to when visiting this secluded spot. From the undulating cliffs that lead you to the cove, to the kaleidoscopic waters that change with the sky, there are few places more peaceful in Cornwall. Sit, breathe, and get lost in the moment.
Rame Head
Instantly recognisable and totally breathtaking, making the most of the nature-built backdrop of Rame Head was a must when filming The Salt Path in Cornwall. In the book and film, Rame Head represents a milestone for the couple as it marks the halfway point along the South West Coast Path and their incredible journey. Taking the week to rest and recuperate here, Raynor and Moth enjoy peaceful swims in the turquoise waters while soaking up the beauty of this beautiful Cornish peninsula.
Padstow
In the film, Padstow’s beautiful harbour is one of the many filming locations shot in one of Cornwall’s picture-perfect towns. In The Salt Path, the couple arrive at Padstow to draw funds before enjoying some of Rick Stein’s famous fish and chips by the water. Next time you’re in Padstow, we heartily recommend following their lead as nothing quite beats the combination of crunchy, battered fish, fluffy chips, and the clink-clink of boats bobbing in the harbour.
Hawkers Cove
Close to Padstow, Hawkers Cove is another Cornish beauty spot to feature in The Salt Path book and film. With turquoise waters, sea-hewn cliffs, and honeyed sands, it’s the perfect place to pause and reflect, which is exactly what Raynor and Moth do when stopping by the peaceful cove.
Holywell Bay
Instantly recognisable thanks to the sweep of golden sands backed by rolling dunes and the famous Gull Rocks, it’s of little surprise that Holywell Bay has featured in many TV series and even a Hollywood film or two (oh yes, James Bond has visited Holywell). Dog-friendly year-round, Holywell Bay is a wonderful place to visit with the dog as there’s lots of space to enjoy the fresh, salty air and sprawling views.
Inspired to follow in the footsteps of Raynor and Moth’s remarkable journey? Explore our beautiful holiday cottages in Cornwall and tread the South West Coast Path for yourself.