North Devon & Cornwall, two of the most picturesque regions in the United Kingdom, have long been celebrated for their stunning landscapes, charming villages and rich history. These areas have become a backdrop for numerous film productions, drawing filmmakers from around the world.
From sweeping coastlines to ancient woodlands, it's no wonder that these locations have provided the perfect setting for many memorable scenes.
For film enthusiasts, visiting these locations can feel like stepping onto a movie set, where familiar scenery from the big screens merges with real-world adventure. Discover some of the most famous film and television series shot in North Devon & Cornwall, showcasing how these breathtaking landscapes continue to capture the imagination of audiences worldwide.
War Horse - Dartmoor, Devon
Steven Spielberg's, War Horse is a moving story of a young boy's unbreakable bond with his horse amid the backdrop of World War I. While the film takes audiences across Europe, many of its breathtaking scenes were filmed in Dartmoor National Park. Dartmoor's Combestone Tor & Ditsworthy Warren House were key locations in the film, capturing the rural charm and harsh realities of Wartime England.
Alice in Wonderland: Through the looking glass - Cornwall
Tim Burton's fantastical reimagining of Alice in Wonderland made use of Cornwall's stunning landscapes to create its dreamlike, otherworldly setting. The lush and exotic gardens of Trebah Garden and Glensurgan Garden near Falmouth provided the perfect backdrop for Alice's magical adventures.
Dunkirk - Saunton Sands, North Devon
Christopher Nolan's intense and visually stunning war film Dunkirk needed a location to recreate the beaches of northern France during World War II. The Filmmakers turned to Saunton Sands, a vast golden beach in North Devon which perfectly matched the look and feel of the original Dunkirk evaluation site.
Poldark - Cornwall
Few television series have captured the essence of Cornwall as beautifully as Poldark. This BBC adaptation of Winston Graham's novels follows the life of Ross Poldark, a soldier returning home after the American War of Independence. The show made extensive use of Conrwall's dramatic coastline, featuring locations such as St Agnes Head, Botallack Mine and Charlestown Harbour.
The Night Manager - Clovelly, North Devon
This critically acclaimed spy thriller, based on John le Carre's novel features scenes shot in Clovelly, one of North Devon's most picturesque villages. With its steep cobbled streets leading down to the sea, Clovelly's timeless charm made it the ideal setting for this gripping drama
Doc Martin - Port Isaac, Cornwall
One of the UK's most beloved television series, Doc Martin stars Martin Clunes as the grumpy yet brilliant Dr.Martin Bellingha. The show's picturesque setting of Port Isaac, a fishing village on Cornwall's North Coast has become almost as famous as the doctor himself.
Visit England and Visit Britain have named many regions as key destinations in the upcoming "Stars of 2025" Award, celebrating locations that capture the essence of the UK’s natural beauty, culture, and cinematic heritage.
At Brend Collection, we are proud to be part of this vibrant landscape and look forward to welcoming visitors as they explore the breathtaking film locations that make North Devon and Cornwall truly special.
Discover the destinations that have been awarded the Stars of 2025 award by Visit Britain and Visit England!
