Escape to the west country: unveiling the real locations of 'beyond paradise'
Forget doom-scrolling; if you're seeking a dose of comforting escapism, the new BBC drama Beyond Paradise is your ticket. A spin-off from the beloved Death in Paradise, the series follows DI Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall) as he trades Caribbean sunshine for a quaint Devonshire town – or so it seems. But where exactly is this idyllic Shipton Abbott brought to life?
The illusion of a coastal town
The show’s producers have cleverly crafted a picturesque setting, complete with stunning aerial views and charming architecture. However, the reality is a touch more complex. Shipton Abbott isn't a real place, a fact that might disappoint those dreaming of relocating. Instead, the series draws on a medley of locations across Devon and Cornwall, meticulously chosen to evoke a specific sense of West Country charm.
The team, led by executive writer and producer Tony Jordan, consciously selected the West Country. “I remember growing up as a kid and my family holidays were in Devon,” Jordan remarked, highlighting a personal connection to the region’s appeal. “It is paradise in its own way, so was a perfect fit and gave me everything the show needed.”
Pinpointing paradise: key filming locations
Let’s break down where you can actually find the spots you’ve seen on screen. For those yearning for a seaside stroll, Looe, Cornwall, serves as the backdrop for Shipton Abbott’s seafront and beach. Executive producer Tim Key explains the decision, stating, “We travelled around lots of different places and were on the hunt to find somewhere that felt like a real town over a seaside resort.” Looe's bustling fishing industry proved the perfect fit.
The high street scenes, meanwhile, are filmed in Launceston, Cornwall, an ancient market town lending a distinctly historical feel. Craving a taste of Martha’s cafe, the Ten Mile Kitchen? Initially, it was filmed in the elegant The Stables Cafe at Port Eliot House and Gardens in Saltash, a Grade-I listed estate. But in season three, the cafe’s location shifted to Looe’s The Sardine Factory, a restaurant celebrated for its innovative Cornish cuisine and a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
And for those eagle-eyed viewers who noticed a castle lurking in the background, you weren't mistaken. Humphrey and Martha’s charming houseboat is moored on the River Tamar, conveniently near Pentillie Castle and Estate in Saltash, offering a slice of fairytale romance to the series.
Finally, the Shipton Abbott police station? That’s the Guildhall in Looe – a Grade II listed building with a distinctive clock tower, currently functioning as a museum. The location scouts deserve a serious commendation for assembling such a convincing illusion of a coastal community.
Beyond Paradise proves that sometimes, the most compelling narratives are found not in grand landscapes, but in the quiet charm of everyday places. So, while Shipton Abbott may be fictional, the West Country locations that bring it to life are undeniably real – and waiting to be explored.