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Burgh Island. South Devon. Film Location

Famous TV & Film Locations across South Devon and the English Riviera: Agatha Christie, War Horse & More

South Devon and the English Riviera have long captivated filmmakers with their dramatic coastlines, historic towns, and timeless charm. From sweeping war epics to classic British comedies and gripping murder mysteries, the region has served as a backdrop for numerous productions. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply seeking scenic spots with a touch of cinematic history. So where are the notable film locations in South Devon and Torbay? Here’s a quick guide to the top spots – 

 

Greenway House National Trust. Agatha Chrisite

1. Agatha Christie Adaptations

Agatha Christie’s deep ties to South Devon are evident in several adaptations of her work, many of which were filmed in locations that inspired her stories.

Notable Adaptations and  Film Locations:

  • And Then There Were None: Burgh Island, off Bigbury-on-Sea, inspired the setting for this novel and was used in its adaptations.

  • Towards Zero: Filming took place on Burgh Island and in the villages of Bantham and Thurlestone, capturing the coastal elegance required for the story’s 1930s setting.

  • Dead Man’s Folly: Greenway House, Christie’s former holiday home in Galmpton, served as the film location for this Poirot mystery.

The Salt Path. Film Locations in Devon

2. The Salt Path (2025)

The Salt Path, adapted from Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir, chronicles the 630-mile journey along the South West Coast Path undertaken by Raynor and her husband Moth after losing their home and facing a terminal illness. The film, starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs, showcases the rugged beauty of Devon’s coastline.

Devon Film Location Highlights:

  • Valley of Rocks: This dramatic landscape in North Devon features towering cliffs and unique rock formations, offering a breathtaking backdrop for the couple’s journey.

  • Clovelly: A picturesque village with steep cobbled streets and a historic harbour, Clovelly provides a timeless setting that aligns with the film’s themes of endurance and discovery.

  • Hartland Quay: Known for its rugged cliffs and dramatic shoreline, this location emphasizes the raw beauty and challenges of the coastal trek.

  • Lynton and Heddon’s Mouth: These areas offer lush, wooded valleys contrasting with open coastal vistas, highlighting the varied terrains encountered along the path.

War Horse. Dartmoor Filming Location.

3. War Horse (2011)

Steven Spielberg’s War Horse utilized the expansive and atmospheric landscapes of Dartmoor National Park to depict the early life of the protagonist and his horse, Joey. The original War Horse novel was written by Devon-based author Michael Morpurgo, who was inspired to write the story after meeting WW1 veterans at his local pub in Iddesleigh, Mid Devon.

Where on Dartmoor can I find War Horse Film Locations?

  • Ditsworthy Warren House: This Grade II listed building near Sheepstor served as the Narracott family’s farmhouse.

  • Haytor and Bonehill, Combestone Tor, and Ringmoor Down: These iconic Dartmoor locations provided the dramatic moorland scenery essential to the film’s setting.

Paignton Beach in Devon with famous Pleasure Pier

4. Monty Python’s Flying Circus (1969–1974)

The surreal comedy of Monty Python’s Flying Circus found a fitting backdrop in parts of Torbay.

Torbay Film Locations:

  • Paignton Pier: Featured in the “Scott of the Antarctic” sketch, this location added a touch of seaside charm to the episode.

  • Torquay and Paignton: Various sketches were filmed in these towns, capitalizing on their quintessential British seaside atmosphere.

Dartmouth. Lower Ferry. Filming location for The Coroner.

5. The Coroner (2015–2016)

This BBC drama series, set in the fictional town of Lighthaven, was filmed across multiple South Devon locations, showcasing the region’s scenic beauty.

Key Film Locations:

  • Dartmouth: The Old Customs House on Bayard’s Cove served as the Coroner’s office.

  • Hope Cove, Totnes, Brixham, Broadsands, Paignton, and Torquay: These towns provided various settings throughout the series, highlighting South Devon’s diverse landscapes.

Beverley Holiday Homes

6. Churchill: The Hollywood Years (2004)

This satirical film reimagining Winston Churchill’s life featured several English Riviera locations.

Filming Highlights:

  • Oldway Mansion, Paignton: Doubled as Buckingham Palace in the film.

  • Brixham Quayside: Used to represent Plymouth Docks, adding a touch of coastal authenticity to the scenes.

Gleneagles Hotel Torquay. Fawlty Towers

7. Fawlty Towers (1975–1979)

Was Fawlty Towers set in Torquay? While Fawlty Towers was not actually filmed in Devon, the series was famously inspired by John Cleese’s stay at the Gleneagles Hotel in Torquay. The hotel’s eccentric owner, Donald Sinclair, left a lasting impression, leading to the creation of the iconic character Basil Fawlty. Sadly now demolished, but replaced with a new development, Sachs Lodge is named in memory of Andrew Sachs who played Manuel in the sitcom. 

What locations inspired Agatha Christie?

Agatha Christie’s connection to the English Riviera is profound, with many local sites influencing her writing.

Key Locations:

  • Greenway House: Located near Brixham, this was Christie’s holiday home and inspired settings in several of her novels.

  • Burgh Island: This tidal island inspired the settings for And Then There Were None and Evil Under the Sun.

  • The Imperial Hotel, Torquay: Appearing under the guise of The Majestic Hotel in Peril at End House and The Body in the Library.

  • Kents Cavern: These prehistoric caves in Torquay are believed to have inspired the “Hampsley Cavern” in The Man in the Brown Suit.

  • Churston Station and Elberry Cove: Mentioned in The ABC Murders

 

South Devon and Torbay’s rich tapestry of landscapes and historic sites continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. Whether retracing the steps of beloved characters or discovering new cinematic gems, the region offers a captivating journey through film history.

Stay Close to the Action with Beverley Holidays

After a day of exploring South Devon’s star-studded scenery, there’s no better place to relax than at Beverley Holidays. Our award-winning family run holiday park in the heart of the English Riviera is the perfect base for film fans and families alike.

Why choose Beverley Holidays?

  • Comfortable Holiday Homes: From luxury lodges with hot tubs to cosy caravans, our range of holiday accommodation for sale caters to all budgets and preferences.

  • Close to Iconic Locations: We’re just a short drive from Torquay, Brixham, and Dartmoor – making it easy to visit the spots you’ve seen on screen.

  • Family-Friendly Facilities: Enjoy our swimming pools, entertainment, soft play, arcades and on-site dining – perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

  • Warm Welcomes Guaranteed: Our friendly team is always on hand to help you feel right at home, whether you’re planning your next day out or looking for a quiet evening in.

Ready to see South Devon through a film-lover’s eyes? Beverley Holidays is your ideal spot for making memories in one of the UK’s most scenic and story-rich regions.

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