Lights, Camera, Cornwall: Iconic screen locations from The Salt Path movie

Few stories capture the healing power of nature quite like The Salt Path. As the highly anticipated film adaptation of Raynor Winn’s beloved memoir arrives in Australian cinemas on May 15, audiences will be swept into a journey of resilience, love, and the rugged beauty of the South West Coast Path. 

In The Salt Path, Raynor and her husband Moth embark on a transformative journey along the 630-mile (1014km) South West Coast Path, a challenge that not only brings them closer together but also offers a profound connection to the wild landscape that surrounds them. 

“The wildness of nature became the reason to go on.”
– Raynor Winn, The Salt Path

The film adaptation of The Salt Path, with its stunning cinematography, brings to life the dramatic landscapes of Cornwall, Devon, and Dorset – the very places that formed the backdrop to Raynor and Moth’s journey. 

Jason Isaacs and Gillian Anderson bring the couple’s story to life, with the South West Coast Path itself emerging as the film’s third star. 

For those inspired by the movie, we offer self-guided walks along Britain’s longest National Trail, giving you the chance to experience the breathtaking cliffs, windswept beaches, and rugged coastlines that shaped their journey.

Our 22-day self-guided walking itinerary from Padstow to Falmouth takes in many of the iconic locations featured in the film. If you have less time, we have other shorter options to choose from, and we an also tailormake the perfect itinerary just for you. 

You don’t need to sleep in a tent or rough it to follow in the footsteps of The Salt Path. We take care of the logistics – with luggage transfers and welcoming, cosy accommodation each night – so you can focus on the adventure. All your trip details and route information will be available on our handy navigation app, and you’ll have the backup of local support should you need it. Fully immerse yourself in the experience and walk with confidence, knowing everything’s been thoughtfully organised for you.

Padstow (Cornwall)

The charming fishing port of Padstow is a highlight for hikers on the South West Coast Path. Scenes for the movie were filmed around the picturesque harbour. In the book, Raynor and Moth withdraw some money in Padstow, stock up on supplies and eat a portion of chips from Rick Stein’s renowned fish & chip shop before making their way back to the path. As you wander into town, you’ll be greeted by rows of quaint cottages, bobbing fishing boats, and the mouth-watering aroma of freshly caught seafood from Stein’s famous eateries. The harbour buzzes with life, while narrow lanes lead you to local shops, galleries, and cosy pubs. Refuel with a Cornish pasty, explore the town’s maritime heritage, or soak up the coastal view. Back on the path, you’ll discover the same stunning landscapes and powerful sense of solitude that made the South West Coast Path a pivotal part of The Salt Path story.

Fistral Beach, Newquay (Cornwall)

Anderson and Isaacs walk in Winn’s footsteps alongside windswept Fistral Beach in Newquay. The town itself provides temporary respite and human connection for the couple. Fistral Beach is one of the UK’s most iconic coastal destinations, renowned for its golden sands, dramatic Atlantic swells, and vibrant surf culture. Framed by the headlands of Towan and Pentire, this expansive beach stretches approximately 750m and is backed by steep sand dunes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a seaside meal or simply soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery, Fistral Beach offers a quintessential Cornish experience. 

Holywell Bay, Newquay (Cornwall)

Anderson and Isaacs arrive windswept and trail-weary at this stunning location, which hikers will encounter when walking the section from Padstow to St Ives. It’s characterised by rolling dunes, mysterious sea caves and dramatic rocks. While not mentioned in the book, Raynor and Moth will most definitely have passed Holywell Bay on their journey. The beach is no stranger to the screen and has appeared in many films and TV series, including Poldark (see more below).

Port Quin, Port Isaac (Cornwall)

Anderson and Isaacs contemplate life on a picnic bench overlooking the craggy secluded cove of Port Quin between Port Isaac and Polzeath. It’s notable for its twin-peaked Gull Rocks and expansive dunes. The surrounding area boasts dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, including guillemots and razorbills. Nearby, Doyden Castle, a 19th-century folly perched on the cliffs, adds a touch of historical intrigue to the landscape. If you would like to include this on your walk, we can easily add on Port Isaac on the Padstow to St Ives section of the South West Coast Path.

Rame Head (Cornwall)

This significant landmark near Plymouth marks a milestone in the couple’s journey. When they round the Rame Peninsula (often referred to as Cornwall’s ‘Forgotten Corner”) they are more than 400 miles into their walk and on the homeward stretch. The headland marks the western entrance to Plymouth Sound and offers panoramic views over Whitsand Bay and the English Channel. We can easily tailor-make a walk on the South West Coast Path that takes in this section, and connect walkers to Looe, Fowey and Portwrinkle.

Land’s End (Cornwall)

The westernmost point of mainland England symbolises a pivotal moment in The Salt Path. Land’s End features cliff-top trails, unique rock formations like the Armed Knight and Dr Syntax’s Head, and the renowned Land’s End Signpost, where many hikers commemorate their visit with a photograph. Nearby highlights include the pristine white sands of Porthcurno Beach and the open-air Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs. 

Time to create your own adventure on the South West Coast Path

We hope The Salt Path movie inspires you to lace up your boots and explore this extraordinary stretch of wilderness. There’s something about trekking along the edge of the land, where the craggy coastline meets the endless horizon, which offers a rare sense of perspective. Beyond its natural splendour, the South West Coast Path is steeped in history, archaeology, and folklore. And at the end of the day, welcoming inns and traditional pubs provide the perfect place to unwind with a hearty meal and reflect on your adventure. 

Talk to our UK Destination Specialists today and find out how we can customise your walking itinerary on the South West Coast Path. We are the established experts on this trail and offer unrivalled flexibility and expertise.

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Turn movie magic into a real-life adventure

See THE SALT PATH and you could win a RAW Travel trip for 2 on the South West Coast Path worth $9000. Flights to the UK included! We are sponsoring a trip and flights giveaway in partnership with Palace Cinemas. To enter, book a ticket online to see the film, showing nationally from May 15. 

MORE INFO & BOOK TICKETS

Also, don’t forget to pick up a copy of Great Walks magazine to read our feature article about walking the South West Coast Path, written by our UK Destination Manager Sandra Sisson. It also gives you another chance to win a self-guided trip for 2 on this iconic path.

More Cornwall on screen

Cornwall is a real favourite with filmmakers and TV producers. Its spectacular coastlines, moorlands and picture-postcard harbours have been a backdrop to a wide variety of films and tv shows.

Poldark
The BBC series Poldark has become synonymous with Cornwall. Iconic filming locations such as the picturesque Porthcawl Harbour, the cliffs of Botallack, and the mining ruins around St Agnes captured Cornwall’s wild beauty, and continues to draw visitors eager to experience the landscape seen on screen.

Doc Martin
This beloved TV series put Port Isaac on the map. It’s set in the fictional village of Portwenn. The picturesque streets, quaint cottages, and breathtaking coastal views steal the show. The feel-good film Fisherman’s Friends was also filmed here, based on the true story of a group of Cornish fishermen who unexpectedly land a record deal.

Game of Thrones
St Michael’s Mount was used in the Games of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon as the compelling setting for Driftmark. Nearby Kynance Cove also features, and there are scenes at Holywell Bay near Newquay. 

James Bond: Die Another Day
Cornwall plays a key role in the 20th film in the James Bond franchise. The stunning cliffs and rugged coastline of Cornwall are featured in several scenes, most notably in the sequence where Bond (played by Pierce Brosnan) escapes danger and embarks on a perilous mission. One of the most iconic locations used in the film is the tidal island of St Michael’s Mount.

Beyond Paradise
This light-hearted crime series is a spin-off from Death in Paradise. Set in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, it was filmed in the coastal town of Looe. The town’s traditional cottages, bustling harbour, and scenic views are featured throughout the show, offering a delightful mix of mystery and stunning Cornish scenery.

Jamaica Inn
This moody adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s novel brings Cornwall’s wild and windswept landscape to life with moody, mysterious charm. Filmed in some of Cornwall’s most remote and evocative locations, the show captures the eerie beauty of Bodmin Moor.

Rick Stein’s Cornwall
The renowned chef takes viewers on a delightful journey through his home county, showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage and stunning landscapes. The series is a feast for the senses, with Rick visiting local markets, fishing ports, and charming eateries, while sharing recipes inspired by the region’s culinary traditions.