Where Is Beyond Paradise Filmed? All About the TV Series

Looe, Cornwall

“Beyond Paradise” is a British crime drama television series that serves as a spin-off of the much-loved “Death in Paradise.” The show follows the adventures of DI Humphrey Goodman, played by Kris Marshall, who relocates from the Caribbean island of Saint Marie to the fictional coastal town of Shipton Abbot in South Devon. Alongside his fiancée Martha Lloyd, played by Sally Bretton, Humphrey continues to solve crimes in a new setting filled with mysteries and local charm. But for many viewers, a pressing question remains: Where is Beyond Paradise filmed?

Main Filming Location: Looe, Cornwall

While “Beyond Paradise” is set in the fictional town of Shipton Abbot, which is portrayed as being in South Devon, viewers often ask, where is Beyond Paradise filmed? The answer to this question lies in the picturesque coastal town of Looe, Cornwall. This charming fishing harbor, situated between Plymouth (20 miles to the east) and Fowey (10 miles to the west), serves as the main filming location for the series. When considering where is Beyond Paradise filmed, it becomes clear that Looe provides the ideal backdrop.

The town is known for its beautiful sandy beach, cobbled streets, and vibrant community, which Executive Producer Tim Key credited with providing “energy and soul” to the fictional town depicted in the series.

To answer the question, where is Beyond Paradise filmed, again we turn to Looe’s idyllic seaside setting. This location serves as the backdrop for many key scenes in the series. For example, in episode five, Martha Lloyd (Sally Bretton) is seen conducting an outdoor yoga class on East Beach while dealing with personal issues, showcasing where Beyond Paradise is filmed. In another scene, DI Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall) reflects on life’s difficult questions while perched on a rock along the same beach. These moments, captured in beautiful Looe, provide a tangible answer to where is Beyond Paradise filmed, making the fictional town of Shipton Abbot feel real and vibrant to the audience.

Beyond Paradise UK Film Locations: A Closer Look

While Looe plays a significant role in the series, it is not the only location when considering where is Beyond Paradise filmed. Several other Cornish destinations contribute to the filming of “Beyond Paradise.” To understand fully where is Beyond Paradise filmed, we must explore these additional locations. So, let’s delve into where is Beyond Paradise filmed and the stunning backdrops that contribute to its captivating storyline.

Looe, Cornwall

Looe is the primary location where “Beyond Paradise” is filmed. This Cornish fishing village, split into East and West Looe by the Looe River, boasts a sandy beach, woodland, and a charming old town with narrow streets and historic architecture. It is in Looe that DI Humphrey Goodman and his fiancée Martha Lloyd set up their new lives. Humphrey joins the local police force while Martha opens her café, providing the backdrop for many of the show’s plotlines. This location is central when answering where is Beyond Paradise filmed.

Launceston, Cornwall

Launceston, the ancient capital of Cornwall, is another key location where “Beyond Paradise” is filmed. Launceston is characterized by its steep hills and historic landmarks, such as the 11th-century Launceston Castle. The show’s characters, DI Humphrey Goodman and DS Esther Williams, investigate leads in the market town of Launceston, adding to the charm and depth of the show. Thus, where was Beyond Paradise filmed also includes Launceston as a significant location.

Port Eliot House and Gardens, Saltash, Cornwall

The Port Eliot House and Gardens is featured in episode three, where Humphrey investigates the disappearance of a rare painting. This large country estate in St Germans, Saltash, is known for its 100-acre gardens designed by Humphry Repton. The estate, with its historical architecture, rhododendron gardens, and views over the estuary, is depicted as Shipton Manor in the series. This location adds a rich, historical element to the series and enhances its aesthetic appeal. It’s a noteworthy spot when considering Beyond Paradise location.

Pentillie Castle and Estate, Cornwall

Though technically on the Tamar River and closer to Devon, Pentillie Castle and Estate in Cornwall is another key location where “Beyond Paradise” is filmed. Built in 1698, Pentillie Castle serves as the backdrop for various scenes requiring a grand estate with Repton-designed woodland gardens. Its proximity to other filming locations and beautiful landscapes made it a perfect choice for the show’s production team. When pondering where is Beyond Paradise filmed, Pentillie Castle offers a picturesque answer.

Werrington Park, Launceston, Cornwall

Werrington Park is another historic site featured in the series. Though it was once considered part of Devon, it has been in Cornwall since the boundary changes in the 1970s. The estate’s extensive grounds and historic features provide a fitting location for many of the show’s outdoor scenes. This site is also integral when answering where is Beyond Paradise filmed.

In summary, when addressing where is Beyond Paradise filmed, the answer encompasses several stunning locations throughout Cornwall, each contributing uniquely to the show’s rich and engaging visual style.

Cast of beyond paradise

The cast of Beyond Paradise brings a diverse range of talent and charisma to the screen, contributing significantly to the show’s success. Here’s a rundown of the main cast of Beyond Paradise and some notable recurring actors:

Main Cast

Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman

Kris Marshall reprises his role as DI Humphrey Goodman, the endearing detective who has transitioned from his Caribbean adventures in Death in Paradise to solving crimes in the fictional town of Shipton Abbot in Beyond Paradise. Marshall’s portrayal of Goodman continues to charm audiences with his blend of wit and empathy. His role as a central figure in the cast of Beyond Paradise adds depth and appeal to the series.

Born on April 1, 1973, in Bath, Somerset, Kris Marshall’s early career included notable appearances on The Bill and Trial & Retribution II. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Nick Harper in My Family and Colin Frissell in Love Actually. His theater credits include performances in Fat Pig and Glengarry Glen Ross. Marshall’s portrayal of Goodman in Death in Paradise and its spin-off Beyond Paradise has been a significant part of his career, showcasing his ability to blend humor and emotional depth.

Sally Bretton as Martha Lloyd

Sally Bretton plays Martha Lloyd, Humphrey’s fiancée, who runs a local café in Shipton Abbot. Bretton’s portrayal of Martha brings a blend of warmth and independence that adds significant depth to the series. Her relationship with Humphrey is a central element of the show’s appeal, contributing both charm and complexity to the narrative. Known for her role as Lucy Adams in Not Going Out, Bretton has also appeared in Death in Paradise and reprised her role in its spin-off, Beyond Paradise, since 2023.

Her extensive acting career includes notable television roles in The Office, Green Wing, and Absolute Power, as well as theatre performances in King Lear and Dial M for Murder. Bretton’s involvement in Beyond Paradise highlights her continued impact on the television landscape.

Zahra Ahmadi as DS Esther Williams

Zahra Ahmadi portrays DS Esther Williams, a dedicated member of the local police force in Beyond Paradise. Her character brings a sense of professionalism and camaraderie to the team, balancing the often quirky investigations with a grounded approach. Ahmadi’s performance is a crucial part of the cast, offering a stable presence within the dynamic police team. Known for her role as Shabnam Masood in EastEnders, Ahmadi has also appeared in Count Arthur Strong, Death in Paradise, and various other television series and films. Her extensive career includes roles in Doctor Who, Black Mirror, and The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret.

Dylan Llewellyn as Kelsey Lewis

Dylan Llewellyn plays PC Kelby Hartford, a junior officer who is eager to prove himself. His character’s enthusiasm and determination contribute to the dynamic of the police team in Shipton Abbott. Llewellyn’s role in the cast of Beyond Paradise adds youthful energy and drive to the series. Known for his roles as Martin “Jono” Johnson in Hollyoaks, James Maguire in Derry Girls, and Jack in Big Boys, Llewellyn brings a fresh and engaging presence to the show.

Felicity Montagu as Angela Johnson

Felicity Montagu takes on the role of Margo Martins, a local resident with a knack for getting involved in the town’s various dramas. Montagu’s performance adds a touch of humor and local color to the series. Her role in the cast of Beyond Paradise enhances the show’s charm with her engaging portrayal of a character who adds depth to the community of Shipton Abbott. Known for her iconic role as Lynn Benfield in I’m Alan Partridge, Montagu’s extensive television and film credits include Bridget Jones’s Diary, Confetti, The Durrells, and Dad’s Army.

Barbara Flynn as Anne Lloyd

Barbara Flynn appears as Anne Lloyd, Martha’s mother, in Beyond Paradise. Her character adds significant depth to Martha’s backstory and enhances the show’s exploration of family dynamics. Flynn’s role is pivotal in enriching the emotional layers and character interactions within the series.

Recurring Cast

Phil Daniels as Marvellous Harris
Phil Daniels makes a memorable appearance as Marvellous Harris, a grizzled fisherman who plays a key role in one of the episodes. His portrayal adds authenticity and depth to the portrayal of Shipton Abbot’s local characters. Daniels’ inclusion in the cast of Beyond Paradise enriches the series with a touch of realism and local flavor.

Jamie Bamber as Archie Hughes
Jamie Bamber features as Archie Hughes, another recurring character who adds intrigue and complexity to the series. His involvement in various storylines enriches the overall narrative. Bamber’s role in the cast of Beyond Paradise ensures that the show remains engaging and layered with multiple dimensions of drama.

The diverse and talented cast of Beyond Paradise ensures that each episode is engaging, with performances that bring both humor and heart to the show. Their collective contributions help make Beyond Paradise a standout in the crime drama genre.

Why Film in Cornwall? The Appeal of South East Cornwall

While the series is set in Devon, the decision to film in Cornwall, specifically South East Cornwall, was a deliberate one. The production team found that Cornwall offered many advantages for shooting “Beyond Paradise.” As Kris Marshall, who plays Humphrey Goodman, noted in an interview, South East Cornwall tends to be less touristy than other areas, making it easier for the crew to move around and film during good weather, typically in the summer months. The area also offers ample accommodation options for cast and crew, adding to its practicality as a filming location.

Moreover, Cornwall’s Tamar Valley, the town of Looe, and their proximity to Plymouth, the A30, and the A38, provided easy access for the production team. The stunning landscapes, charming coastal towns, and diverse scenery made Cornwall an ideal location to create the fictional world of Shipton Abbot.

The Filming Process and Behind-the-Scenes Details

Filming a show like “Beyond Paradise” is no small feat. The production at Pentillie Estate, for example, involved a large number of people and vehicles, with hundreds of crew members and many vehicles coming and going throughout the day. The location manager specifically looked for riverside and rural cottages, woodland pathways, derelict buildings, and a quay, all of which are prominently featured in the first episode.

The choice of filming locations wasn’t just about aesthetics. Practical considerations like easy access, ample parking space, and proximity to good roads also played a significant role in selecting sites like Pentillie Castle. The estate’s central location to other filming spots and its photogenic quality further added to its appeal as a prime filming location.

Why Wasn’t the Castle Used? The Decision Behind Filming Choices

Interestingly, while Pentillie Castle is featured prominently in “Beyond Paradise,” the production team decided not to use the castle itself for any scenes. One reason could be that the castle had already been used in other television productions, like Sky One’s “Delicious,” and may not have fit the storyline for “Beyond Paradise.” Additionally, the castle was busy with weddings and private hire bookings during the filming period, which made it unavailable.

Instead, the show’s location manager focused on finding other suitable locations within the Pentillie Estate, such as the riverside cottage and quay. These areas provided the desired aesthetic while still allowing the show to utilize the beautiful and practical surroundings of the estate.

What Did the Crew Think of Filming in Cornwall?

The cast and crew of “Beyond Paradise” seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed their time filming in Cornwall. Describing the experience, they spoke of blue skies, proximity to wonderful beaches, great food, excellent drinks, and friendly locals. The team frequently visited local spots, such as Sarah’s Pasties, and took advantage of the less crowded, scenic locations to capture the series’ unique charm.

Despite the challenges of long filming days, the crew expressed their enjoyment of working in Cornwall. The laid-back atmosphere, stunning scenery, and local hospitality made for a memorable filming experience. The only minor drama reported involved a scene filmed in a young boy’s bedroom, where the props managers took great care to replace his Lego collection exactly as they found it—much to the relief of the boy!

All About “Beyond Paradise” — A Spin-off with a Fresh Twist

“Beyond Paradise” premiered on February 24, 2023, and was quickly renewed for a second series and a Christmas special. The show’s success can be attributed to its engaging storylines, endearing characters, and the picturesque settings of its filming locations. Following DI Humphrey Goodman’s journey from the tropical paradise of Saint Marie to the quieter yet equally captivating Shipton Abbot, the series provides a fresh twist on the “Death in Paradise” formula while maintaining the light-hearted humor and charm that made the original so beloved.

The main cast includes Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman, Sally Bretton as Martha Lloyd, Zahra Ahmadi as DS Esther Williams, Dylan Llewellyn as PC Kelby Hartford, Felicity Montagu as Margo Martins, and Barbara Flynn as Anne Lloyd. Each character brings their unique quirks and backstories to the show, contributing to its appeal.

Beyond Paradise season 2

Conclusion: Where Is Beyond Paradise Filmed? A Celebration of Cornwall’s Beauty

So, where is Beyond Paradise filmed? While the series is set in the fictional Devonian town of Shipton Abbot, much of the filming took place in South East Cornwall. Locations like Looe, Launceston, Port Eliot House and Gardens, Pentillie Castle, and Werrington Park provide the stunning backdrops that make the series so visually captivating. The choice to film in Cornwall was driven by the region’s beauty, accessibility, and practical benefits, making it the perfect setting for this delightful crime drama.

By filming in these picturesque locations, “Beyond Paradise” not only tells engaging stories but also celebrates the unique charm of Cornwall’s landscapes. Whether you’re tuning in for the mysteries or the scenery, the show offers a delightful escape into a world where every corner holds a new story waiting to be told.