The Salt Path Filming Locations in Cornwall

The windswept cliffs, golden sands, and rugged trails of Cornwall serve as more than just a scenic backdrop — they tell a story. For readers and viewers of The Salt Path, Cornwall is the soul of the journey, the silent companion of two weary wanderers who find solace and strength in nature’s raw beauty. Whether you fell in love with Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir or the television adaptation, retracing the filming locations in Cornwall offers a chance to step into the footsteps of Raynor and Moth and witness the unfiltered wildness that shaped their path. Check out these Salt Path filming locations in Cornwall.

The Salt Path: A Journey of Loss, Resilience, & Rediscovery

Published in 2018, The Salt Path tells the deeply personal and moving story of Raynor Winn and her husband, Moth, who — after losing their home and receiving a terminal diagnosis — decide to walk the 630-mile South West Coast Path. This journey becomes a lifeline, both physically and emotionally. The couple begin their walk in Somerset and follow the coast down through Devon and into Cornwall, where much of the book’s most poignant moments unfold.

Top Filming Locations from The Salt Path in Cornwall

The television adaptation captures this transformative experience with equal sensitivity, choosing many of the original locations to reflect the untamed and therapeutic power of the Cornish coast. These filming spots not only echo the book’s narrative but also invite visitors to experience the same breathtaking vistas, coastal winds, and quiet moments of introspection.

1. Padstow

Padstow is more than just a charming fishing town — it’s a gateway to the wilds of the Cornish coast. Known for its bustling harbour, quaint streets, and foodie culture, Padstow also marks a significant stop on the South West Coast Path. In the show, Padstow is depicted as a point of both reflection and transition for Raynor and Moth as they leave behind more familiar comforts and continue deeper into their coastal odyssey.

What to see:

• Explore the Camel Estuary.
• Take the ferry across to Rock for scenic views.
• Enjoy coastal walks leading north toward Trevone and Harlyn Bay.

2. Rame Head

Located on the southeastern edge of Cornwall near Plymouth, Rame Head is a remote and peaceful headland, topped with a solitary chapel. It’s one of the lesser-known filming spots from The Salt Path, but its windswept cliffs and panoramic ocean views create a sense of isolation that perfectly fits the story’s mood of vulnerability and reflection.

What to see:

• The 14th-century chapel at the head.
• Expansive sea views toward Plymouth Sound.
• Quiet walking trails through forgotten headlands.

3. Holywell Bay

Holywell Bay offers drama in every direction — from towering sand dunes to the jagged Gull Rocks offshore. Used in the television adaptation for its cinematic scope, Holywell’s golden sands capture the emotional highs and lows of the journey. It's a beach that looks unchanged by time, echoing the themes of impermanence and endurance.

What to see:

• The iconic sea stacks (Gull Rocks).
• Miles of sandy walking along the shoreline.
• The beach at sunset, where waves crash in slow rhythm.

4. Newquay

Newquay, known for its surf culture and vibrant energy, may seem like an unexpected choice for the introspective tone of The Salt Path, but it captures the contrast between solitude and society. In the series, Newquay represents the push and pull between the harshness of homelessness and moments of lighthearted distraction, like watching surfers glide through waves.

What to see:

• Fistral Beach and Towan Head.
• The bustling harbour and nearby beaches.
• Coastal walks heading north to Watergate Bay or south to Crantock.

5. Port Quin

A truly tucked-away treasure, Port Quin is a quiet cove near Port Isaac that seems frozen in time. Once a thriving fishing village, it’s now an almost-forgotten hamlet that evokes the feeling of total seclusion. Its haunting stillness and stark natural beauty made it a perfect filming location, reflecting the inner stillness Raynor and Moth begin to find within themselves.

What to see:

• Rocky shoreline perfect for contemplation.
• Trails toward Doyden Castle and Port Isaac.
• A chance to step back into Cornwall’s past.

6. Land’s End

One of the most iconic locations in Cornwall, Land’s End marks the southwestern tip of England — a place that’s both an end and a beginning. For Raynor and Moth, it symbolizes the sheer scale of their journey and the resilience it required. In both the memoir and the series, Land’s End is a metaphorical milestone: standing at the edge of the world, facing the vast Atlantic, stripped of everything but each other.

What to see:

• The clifftop trail with sweeping sea views for Cornwall filming locations.
• The dramatic cliffs at nearby Nanjizal or Sennen Cove.
• The iconic Land’s End signpost for a photo op or Cornwall film locations.

Beyond The Salt Path: Other Must-See Spots in Cornwall

If The Salt Path has inspired you to visit Cornwall, you’ll find countless other natural wonders and cultural landmarks along the way. Knowing the Salt Path book locations can go a long way. Here are a few worth adding to your itinerary:

• Tintagel Castle – Perched on dramatic cliffs, this legendary site of King Arthur lore invites visitors to explore myth and history side by side.
• The Eden Project – Located near St Austell, this world-renowned ecological attraction is home to massive biomes that recreate rainforest and Mediterranean environments.
• Lizard Peninsula – Cornwall’s southernmost tip is a haven for rare flora, turquoise coves, and charming villages.
• St. Michael’s Mount – A tidal island topped with a medieval castle, perfect for combining coastal walks with rich history.
• Boscastle – A picturesque harbour village and starting point for some of Cornwall’s most breathtaking cliff walks.

Plan Your Salt Path Pilgrimage

Cornwall isn’t just a filming location — it’s a character in The Salt Path story. Its wild cliffs, ever-changing skies, and timeless coastline represent freedom, survival, and the healing power of nature. Whether you're following Raynor and Moth’s footsteps or simply searching for an unforgettable adventure, these filming spots along the South West Coast Path offer a truly immersive way to connect with the landscape.

For travelers seeking to experience both the raw and the restorative, Cornwall is the perfect destination. Walk a little slower, breathe a little deeper, and let the wind carry your cares out to sea. Reach out to our team at Together Travel to help you plan your holiday.