Top film locations to visit in Cornwall

Step into the Cornish wilderness, and you might just stumble on somewhere that looks strangely familiar. In fact, Cornwall has been the backdrop to some of the most beloved films and TV shows in the world.

And why not? With its sweeping moorland vistas, dramatic coastline and quaint coastal villages, it’s no wonder Cornwall has become a hub for directors looking for the perfect film location. Here, we’ve pulled together some of the top Cornwall film locations you won’t want to miss.

Charlestown, nr St Austell

If you’ve ever watched historical drama Poldark (2015), you’ll no doubt have fallen in love with the charming harbour village of Charlestown.

As one of the key locations in the popular BBC series, as well as The Three Musketeers (2011), its picturesque location makes it a must-see on Cornwall’s bucket list destinations (and we just love its little coffee shops!).

Other key Poldark locations include the awe-inspiring cliff setting of Botallack Mine, as well as Wheal Coates.

Newquay

For those who grew up watching The Witches (1990) – adapted from the book of the same name by Roald Dahl – The Head Hotel might just bring back some scary memories.

Large parts of the film were set at this popular Newquay location, just about world-famous surf location Fistral Beach. While the inside has undergone extensive refurbishment, you’ll no doubt recognise the outside.

Port Isaac

Port Isaac was once the setting for the fictional village of Portwenn – the home of Doc Martin. The long-running TV series ended in 2022 but remains a firm favourite in British TV culture, thanks to its comic grumpy doctor and wholesome village residents.

But the famous fishing village has also starred in the film, too! Home to beloved folk group Fisherman’s Friends, the village became the setting for the 2019 film of the same name (and its 2022 sequel) – a comedy drama loosely based on real events on the band’s rise to fame.

Portloe

Situated on the Roseland Peninsula, Portloe is almost a hidden Cornwall gem, tucked away from the masses. That said, it featured in 2013 romantic film drama About Time, starring Domhnal Gleeson and Rachel McAdams, and for good reason.

Another fishing village jewel in Cornwall’s TV crown, and you might just spot the nearby church at St Michael Penkivel in the film, too.

Mounts Bay

Mounts Bay is home to St Michael’s Mount, which has featured in numerous films over the decades, thanks to its dramatic island and castle setting.

Most recently, you may have spotted it in the Games of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon (2022), where local beaches were also used in filming.

While the Mount has its own long and colourful history, the stunning views are undoubtedly one of our favourites reasons to visit this iconic West Cornwall location.

Kynance Cove

We saved one of our favourite film locations for last: Kynance Cove! One of Cornwall’s most beloved beauty spots, the turquoise waters and white sands of Kynance are a draw for visitors from across the South West.

If you’ve not been before, you might have seen it featured in the 2020 adaptation of The Secret Garden. Our advice? When planning your visit, squeeze this one in on the day you explore Mounts Bay to make the most of the picturesque coastline in between the two locations.

Explore from your base at Lewinnick Lodge

To make the most of the best film locations in Cornwall, book Lewinnick Lodge as your base.

From here, discover those popular spots and tucked-away treasures by day, and refuel on signature dishes in our cliff-side restaurant in the evening.

Our sea-facing rooms on the edge of Newquay remind you just why Cornwall has inspired so many directors (and can you blame them?).

Head here to book your stay, or find out more ways to make the most of your visit to Cornwall in our latest blogs.

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