The Salt Path, a film adaptation of Raynor Winn's 2018 memoir of the same name, is set to hit UK cinemas on May 30. The movie stars Gillian Anderson as Raynor and Jason Isaacs as her husband Moth, chronicling their journey as they hike the 630-mile South West Coast Path.
The memoir recalls a challenging period in Raynor's life when she and Moth lost their home and he suffered a health crisis. With minimal equipment and low funds, they embarked on a walk along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, encountering numerous intriguing local characters along the way.
As expected , much of the filming took place in Cornwall, Devon, and Dorset. However, the crew also ventured to Monmouthshire, Gloucestershire, and West Sussex in search of the perfect locations.
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Here are some Devon and Cornwall spots that keen movie fans can look out for.
Hartland Quay, Devon
A former harbour, Hartland Quay is a stunning part of the South West Coast Path, known for its incredible views and choppy seas in the winter. It's no stranger to film crews; as far back as 1950 the quay was used as a filming location for Disney's Treasure Island, and it has also appeared as a backdrop in the film Hercules and BBC series The Night Manager.
Clovelly, Devon
The iconic sloping streets of Clovelly also make an appearance in The Salt Path. This quaint village is popular with tourists, and has also welcomed film crews before. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a 2018 movie set in the aftermath of WWII was filmed here, as well as a 2008 mini-series adaption of Sense & Sensibility.
Padstow, Cornwall
While much of The Salt Path unfolds in nature, the couple also pass through several towns and villages during their hike. Padstow is one such location that viewers will recognise, with the crew seen filming around the charming fishing port.
Fistral Beach, Newquay
Fistral Beach is another locale that cinema-goers might identify. Although the beach is typically teeming with surfers and tourists during the summer, it transforms into a tranquil spot favoured by walkers like the couple at the centre of the story during the off-season, according to Simply Sea Views.
Port Quin, North Cornwall
In one memorable scene from the book, the couple enjoy a picnic at the rugged cove of Port Quin, reflecting on their journey and the awe-inspiring power of nature. This uplifting moment is set against the backdrop of the remnants of Doyden Castle and the stunning rocky beach.
Holywell Bay, Cornwall
The Salt Path isn't the first time Holywell Bay has graced our screens. The sandy beach, nestled near Newquay, has been featured in James Bond's Die Another Day, Poldark, and the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon. With its sea caves and dramatic rock formations along the coast, it provides an ideal setting for intense scenes.
Rame Head, South Cornwall
Rame Head, a headland in South Cornwall, serves as a significant point in the narrative. Here, the couple realise they have crossed the halfway mark of their journey, prompting them to wonder what lies ahead once their adventure ends.
Rame Head, home to the medieval St Michael's Chapel, has strong seafaring links, and is even mentioned in sea shanties. The last thing sailors who left Plymouth would see of England was the headland, and it was the first thing they'd seen on their return.
The Salt Path will arrive in cinemas across the UK from May 30.
2025-02-18T12:49:39Z