For those seeking wayfaring reveries beside otherworldly ocean realms, there are few tales more inspiring than Raynor Winn’s memoir, The Salt Path. A moving account of one couple’s journey from devastation to rediscovery along the South West Coast Path, this true story is a captivating depiction of love, resilience, and the healing power of the natural world.
Moving hearts, minds, and feet, the screen adaptation of The Salt Path lifts the story of Raynor and Moth Winn (portrayed by Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs) from the page and shares the breath-taking and transformative landscapes of the UK’s longest National Trail. From its beginning in Minehead in Somerset to its end in Poole in Dorset, it promises endless salt-kissed inspiration and some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable.
Embrace adventure and step into your own ocean odyssey with our curated guide to some of the beautiful locations filmed in The Salt Path.
Somerset
Minehead, Somerset
Minehead in Somerset marks the start of the 630-mile South West Coast Path and the beginning of Raynor and Moth Winn’s months-long journey on foot. Signalled by a large bronze monument of hands holding a map, the beginning of the path meanders past the golden sands of Minehead’s seafront and multi-coloured boats of the harbour and rises through verdant countryside to reach the top of windswept cliffs. One of the best beaches in Somerset for dreamy days by the sea, it sets a poignant backdrop for the pursuit of clifftop escapes.
Porlock Weir, Somerset
Residing 9 miles along the coast path from Minehead, the picturesque village of Porlock Weir makes for a soul-stirring setting along The Salt Path. One of the first destinations reached following Raynor and Moth’s departure from Minehead, it sits pretty within timeless scenery, embraced by greenery-draped cliffs and met by a pebble-strewn beach and harbour. Interlaced by rivers and streams and nudged by wildlife-rich marshland, this magical location makes for an idyllic place to explore and a peaceful sanctuary in which to reset. This oceanside sanctuary is close to where Raynor and Moth pause to refuel at Kitnors Tea Garden in Bossington, and is also home to one of the best pubs in Exmoor National Park, The Ship Inn.
Devon
Valley of Rocks, North Devon
The Valley of Rocks is one of the most striking features of Exmoor National Park and one of the most beautiful locations filmed in The Salt Path. Tucked within the Devonshire border on the North Devon Coast National Landscape, this unusual valley was shaped by glacial activity and boasts instantly recognisable aesthetics. Follow the footsteps of Raynor and Moth through Gillian and Jason’s heartfelt performances and absorb the enchanting natural architecture of the valley. Beloved for its curious rock formations and ancient relics, the bracken-coated slopes of the valley are also renowned for their adorable herd of free-roaming wild goats.
Clovelly, North Devon
One of the most iconic filming locations in the Salt Path, the bewitching village of Clovelly in Devon has long captured hearts for its sloping streets and picture-perfect harbour. Full of charming romance, this Devon idyll once nestled within an estate owned by William the Conqueror and today is still privately owned. Lending a serene backdrop to a challenging stage of the Winns’ walk along the South West Coast Path, Clovelly has also been captured during several other silver screen performances, including a depiction of Guernsey in The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society film.
Hartland Quay, North Devon
With roots dating back hundreds of years, the little village of Hartland Quay in North Devon is adored for its location on the edge of the Atlantic. Home to a natural amphitheatre of rocky cliffs blanketed by a pebble and shingle beach, it is sought by hikers and lovers of nature alike for its undulating coast path and far-reaching views. On balmy days, endless pleasure can be found in retracing The Salt Path, shouldering the edge of the ocean. When the wind picks up, Hartland Quay viewpoint offers a magnetic position from which to watch some of the country’s most dramatic waves whip up a foamy frenzy and crash against the ribbons of rock below.
Cornwall
Port Quin, North Cornwall
Around the corner from Port Isaac (of Doc Martin and Fisherman’s Friends fame) lies the heavenly Port Quin. A north coast gem, this delightful pocket of paradise features a whitewashed collection of cottages within a sheltered inlet. A place of timeless beauty, its position on Cornwall’s north coast makes it a dream for short walks and long hikes through the ocean-lapped surrounds. To uncover the area’s allure, head over with walking attire and a supply of artisan treats and follow the drifting trail of the South West Coast Path. For further exploration, venture to Port Isaac to find its sweet cobbled streets and Michelin Star menus.
Padstow, North Cornwall
Home to a glittering marina, waterfront boutiques, sun-soaked vineyards, and some of the best places to eat in Cornwall, the harbour town of Padstow is simply divine. One of the most beautiful locations filmed in The Salt Path, it paints a dreamy portrait as Raynor and Moth savour some of Rick Stein’s salt-flecked fish and chips on the waterside. Visit the town to absorb its atmosphere and peruse its cafés and attractions. To continue wayfaring reveries, you can take an exhilarating boat trip around Puffin Island, or meander along The Camel Trail which runs for 18 car-free miles between Padstow and Wenford Bridge.
Newquay, North Cornwall
Newquay is beloved as one of the UK’s most vibrant oceanside towns. A surfer’s paradise and a haven for ocean lovers, it tempts with characterful streets, expansive beaches, and crystalline waves that promise wild escapism. A natural subject for the camera, Newquay’s salt-kissed offerings feature in The Salt Path, captivating audiences with coastal beauty and lending a space for Moth and Raynor “to feel part of humanity”. Especially recognisable, Fistral Beach showcases its sweeping sands and turquoise waters during the film – a stunning setting throughout the year for alfresco moments in ocean breezes. Making it all the more tempting to visit, Fistral is also overlooked by one of the best seafood restaurants in Cornwall, The Fish House.
Holywell Bay, North Cornwall
Amongst the beloved beaches and secret corners of Cornwall’s coastline, the sublime Holywell Bay awaits with spectacular vistas. One of the most beautiful locations filmed in The Salt Path, this honey-hued bay has also been featured in TV series such as House of the Dragon and Poldark. Relax in the lee of marram-coated dunes and relish the serene embrace of the bay for picnics and panoramas. An iconic sight within the bay is the twin frames of Gull Rocks, while all around the bay are rock formations and shallow pools perfect for exploring. To cool off after hikes along the coast path, Holywell Bay is lifeguarded from May until the end of September each year.
Rame Head, South Cornwall
The Rame Head National Landscape is a place of untamed beauty. A tapestry of unspoilt landscapes, it is home to the 865-acre Mount Edgcumbe Estate, as well as Maker Heights, the twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand, and Rame Head itself. Particularly commanding, the focal point of Rame Head is a sea-wrapped headland topped with a Medieval church. Marking the halfway point of The Salt Path, it sets the backdrop to a shared moment between the onscreen Raynor and Moth as they smile before taking on the uphill hike to the summit of the headland. From the top, exquisite views across Whitsand Bay reveal themselves, perfect for moments of ocean gazing and wildlife spotting above the sapphire sea.
Feeling inspired to retrace the magical locations filmed in The Salt Path? Uncover our collection of luxury cottages for your salt-kissed sojourn.
