Beyond paradise: unveiling the real locations of your new comfort watch

Forget doom-scrolling; a gentle escape awaits in Beyond Paradise, the charming spin-off of Death in Paradise. But while the show conjures a picture-postcard vision of idyllic British life, the reality of where it's filmed might surprise you. It’s not quite the quaint village it portrays, but the West Country locations are undeniably stunning.

The fictional town of shipton abbott: a composite creation

The heart of the series lies in Shipton Abbott, a town that exists solely within the realm of television. While the BBC intended to depict a Devonshire locale, no such place by that name exists. Instead, the production team expertly stitched together various towns and villages in Devon and Cornwall to create the illusion of this charming community. The result is a visual feast, thanks to sweeping aerial shots and carefully chosen architecture—a deliberate aesthetic choice that elevates the viewing experience.

The show’s producers sought a location that evoked a strong sense of community, and they found it in the West Country. As executive writer and producer Tony Jordan explained, “I remember growing up as a kid and my family holidays were in Devon… I love Cornwall and the West Country and lived in Bristol for a while, so it's very familiar to me.” He added, “It is paradise in its own way, so was a perfect fit and gave me everything the show needed.”

Pinpointing the paradise: key filming locations

So, where can you actually visit to get a taste of Shipton Abbott? Let's break down the key locations that contribute to the series' visual charm:

Looe, Cornwall serves as the primary backdrop, particularly for the seafront and beach scenes. The town's thriving fishing industry was a key factor in its selection, as executive producer Tim Key noted: “When we went to Looe… it was a beautiful tourist town, but also a thriving community with fishing businesses, so we felt we had found our home.” You’ll spot DI Goodman strolling along East Beach, cementing Looe’s place in the Beyond Paradise universe.

The high street scenes, lending Shipton Abbott a quaint, historical feel, are filmed in Launceston, Cornwall, an ancient market town. The Stables Cafe at Port Eliot House and Gardens in Saltash, Cornwall, provided the initial setting for Martha’s cafe, Ten Mile Kitchen—a Grade-I listed priory with a fascinating history involving the renowned architect Sir John Soane. However, Ten Mile Kitchen has since relocated to Looe’s The Sardine Factory, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant showcasing the best of Cornish cuisine.

For a truly unique touch, Humphrey and Martha’s houseboat is situated on the River Tamar, near Pentillie Castle and Estate in Saltash, Cornwall—a location that even manages to incorporate a riverside cottage and quay belonging to Martha’s mother. Finally, the Shipton Abbott police station itself is housed within The Guildhall in Looe, a Grade II listed building dating back to 1877 and currently operating as a museum.

The dedication of the production team to showcasing the beauty of the West Country is evident, and the result is a show that’s as visually appealing as it is comforting. The strategic use of multiple locations creates a heightened sense of realism, even as the series embraces a gentle, escapist atmosphere.