Where Is Beyond Paradise Filmed

“Beyond Paradise,” the beloved spin-off of Death in Paradise, takes fans from the Caribbean to the picturesque countryside of the United Kingdom. Set in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, the show seamlessly blends crime-solving with stunning coastal and rural landscapes. The setting plays a vital role in bringing the narrative to life, and while Shipton Abbott doesn’t exist in reality, its charm is derived from several breathtaking locations across Devon and Cornwall.

This article explores the key filming sites used to create the world of Beyond Paradise, offering a guide for fans eager to experience the show’s settings in real life.

The Heart of Shipton Abbott: Looe, Cornwall

The primary filming location for Shipton Abbott is the quaint seaside town of Looe in southeast Cornwall. With its picturesque harbor, narrow winding streets, and traditional fishing village aesthetics, Looe perfectly captures the warm, small-town feel required for the show.

Looe is split into two sections: East Looe and West Looe, connected by the famous Looe Bridge. East Looe is known for its vibrant fishing industry, sandy beach, and bustling town center filled with local shops and cafés. West Looe, on the other hand, offers quieter, more scenic walking trails with breathtaking views of the coastline.

The charming waterfront and historic architecture make Looe an ideal stand-in for Shipton Abbott, providing a visually rich and immersive setting for the series.

Shipton Abbott Police Station: The Guildhall, Looe

One of the most frequently featured locations in the show is the Shipton Abbott Police Station, which serves as the central hub for the town’s investigative action. In reality, this building is the historic Guildhall in Looe.

The Guildhall, a striking architectural structure, has long been a landmark in Looe. Its traditional stone facade and central position within the town make it a natural choice for filming. The exterior of the Guildhall is often shown in scenes where the detectives discuss ongoing cases or interact with townspeople. Its inclusion in the series adds authenticity and provides a recognizable anchor for the fictional town of Shipton Abbott.

Shipton Abbott Manor House: Port Eliot House & Gardens

The grand Shipton Abbott Manor House, a symbol of heritage and history in the show, is filmed at Port Eliot House & Gardens, located in St Germans, Cornwall. This stately home, with its historic grandeur and stunning landscaped gardens, serves as a backdrop for several important scenes throughout the series.

Port Eliot House has a long and fascinating history, making it a fitting choice for the show. The estate boasts elegant architecture, centuries-old furnishings, and vast gardens that enhance the period drama feel of certain scenes. The lush surroundings provide an ideal contrast to the more modern elements of the series, creating a well-balanced mix of past and present.

Additional Filming Locations Across Devon and Cornwall

Beyond Looe, Beyond Paradise uses several other scenic locations to capture the charm of Shipton Abbott and its surroundings. These locations contribute to the show’s realistic portrayal of a coastal English town.

Tamar Valley

Straddling the border between Devon and Cornwall, the Tamar Valley is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The lush landscapes, rolling hills, and serene waterways provide an idyllic backdrop for several scenes in the series. The valley’s rich history of mining, farming, and river transport adds depth to the show’s setting.

Bere Ferrers and Weir Quay

The small villages of Bere Ferrers and Weir Quay, nestled along the banks of the River Tamar, offer rustic charm and beautiful waterside views. These locations are often used for countryside scenes in Beyond Paradise, depicting rural life outside the main town. The peaceful environment and stunning natural beauty of these areas contribute to the show’s visually appealing aesthetic.

South Devon Railway

The heritage Buckfastleigh railway station on the South Devon Railway is another notable filming location. This vintage steam railway line, running through the scenic Dart Valley, doubles as Shipton Abbott’s railway station. The nostalgic charm of the railway, combined with its well-preserved historical trains and stations, adds authenticity to the show’s period-evoking elements.

Visiting the Real-Life Shipton Abbott

For fans looking to immerse themselves in the world of Beyond Paradise, visiting the filming locations is a fantastic way to experience the magic of the show firsthand. Many of these locations are accessible to the public and offer unique experiences.

Looe, Cornwall

Visitors to Looe can stroll through the historic town center, enjoy fresh seafood from local restaurants, and relax on the sandy beach. The picturesque harbor, bustling with fishing boats, provides a sense of the town’s lively maritime culture. The Looe Bridge, featured prominently in the show, is a must-see landmark for fans.

Port Eliot House & Gardens

Port Eliot House is open to the public during certain times of the year. Visitors can explore its elegant rooms, wander through its beautifully landscaped gardens, and gain insight into the history behind this grand estate. It’s a perfect destination for those interested in historical architecture and scenic landscapes.

South Devon Railway

Conclusion

The stunning locations of Beyond Paradise play a crucial role in making Shipton Abbott feel like a real, lived-in town. The combination of Cornwall’s seaside charm and Devon’s rolling countryside provides the perfect setting for the show’s mix of mystery and warmth. Whether you’re a fan of the series or simply a traveler seeking beautiful destinations, these filming locations offer a glimpse into the enchanting world of Beyond Paradise.

Train enthusiasts and Beyond Paradise fans alike can enjoy a nostalgic trip on the South Devon Railway. The steam trains provide a unique travel experience, allowing visitors to relive the vintage charm that the show captures so well. The journey through the Dart Valley showcases some of Devon’s most picturesque countryside.

For those inspired to visit, the real-life Shipton Abbott awaits, filled with historic landmarks, breathtaking scenery, and the timeless appeal of England’s coastal countryside.