The BBC series Beyond Paradise has captured the hearts of audiences with its compelling storyline and stunning coastal scenery. Set in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, the show has allowed Cornwall’s picturesque locations to shine. In this article, we will delve into the real-life Beyond Paradise filming locations that stand in for Shipton Abbott, giving viewers an opportunity to explore these stunning spots across the UK.
The Fictional Setting of Shipton Abbott
The town of Shipton Abbott, though fictional, plays a crucial role in Beyond Paradise. This quaint, coastal community serves as the backdrop for the series, providing an idyllic and mysterious setting for the characters to unravel crimes. While the storyline is set in a fictional place, the Beyond Paradise filming location draws upon Cornwall’s natural beauty, from rolling hills to serene beaches, enhancing the storyline and adding depth to the show’s world.
The creation of Shipton Abbott as a fictional location allows the show’s writers more flexibility, enabling them to craft storylines that can be set in any type of environment within the fictional town. The decision not to tie the series to a specific, real-life town opens the door for more imaginative storytelling, all the while using real Beyond Paradise filming locations that enhance the authenticity of the drama. The choice of Cornwall, with its stunning coastal views and historical sites, was no accident. These locations contribute to the show’s atmosphere, combining the picturesque with the thrilling in ways that keep audiences hooked.
Looe: The Heart of Shipton Abbott
Looe, a charming town in South East Cornwall, serves as the heart of Shipton Abbott in Beyond Paradise. Its cobbled streets and colourful buildings make it an ideal representation of a small, coastal town. One of the most recognisable Beyond Paradise filming locations in Looe is Fore Street, which serves as the bustling market square in Shipton Abbott. The cobbled lanes and traditional architecture of the area provide the perfect backdrop for the series’ quaint but vibrant community. In the series, this street is alive with characters, setting the scene for key moments in each episode.
Another important Beyond Paradise filming location in Looe is the Guildhall, which is used to represent the police station in Shipton Abbott. Its historic and elegant design makes it an excellent choice for portraying a local law enforcement office. The Guildhall’s grand, traditional features mirror the values of the town, where people are closely connected, and secrets are always within reach. Another iconic Beyond Paradise filming location from Looe is Looe Bridge, which offers a picturesque view of the water. The bridge serves as a key location in several episodes, providing a beautiful yet mysterious atmosphere.
Exploring Other Cornwall Filming Locations
Beyond Looe, Beyond Paradise also takes advantage of the breathtaking locations scattered throughout Cornwall. The serene Pont Creek, near Fowey, is another location that frequently appears in the series. With its stunning views of the water and quiet, hidden nature, it represents the tranquil side of Shipton Abbott, where things are not always as peaceful as they seem. This location provides a calming yet foreboding atmosphere, ideal for key dramatic moments in the show.
Whitsand Bay, with its expansive views and dramatic cliffs, also features prominently in Beyond Paradise. The bay’s wild, natural beauty adds a layer of grandeur and mystery to the show, making it a perfect setting for some of the most intense scenes. St Germans, a village near the River Tiddy, is another Beyond Paradise filming location used to depict Shipton Abbott. Its charming, historical streets provide a timeless backdrop for the series, blending seamlessly with the show’s theme of small-town intrigue.
Lastly, the Pentillie Estate, a beautiful riverside estate, plays an important role in the series. This luxurious location serves as the mooring for DI Humphrey Goodman’s houseboat, giving it a sense of elegance and mystery. The estate’s stunning gardens and riverside views make it a beautiful and fitting setting for the detective’s home life. These diverse Beyond Paradise filming locations, from beaches to historical buildings, contribute to Beyond Paradise’s rich atmosphere, enhancing the viewer’s experience with every scene.
Beyond Cornwall: Additional Filming Locations
While Cornwall takes centre stage in Beyond Paradise, the series also includes filming locations from neighbouring counties, offering viewers a variety of settings that further enrich the world of Shipton Abbott. Bere Ferrers and Weir Quay in Devon, for instance, are used to portray more quiet, secluded areas of Shipton Abbott, providing a contrasting backdrop to the busier locations seen in Looe. These locations help to create a more diverse, dynamic world in the series, enhancing the sense of place.
Plymouth, located just outside Cornwall, also contributes to the filming of Beyond Paradise. The University of Plymouth’s buildings are used to represent the South West Police Headquarters in the series. This location is used for scenes that depict the higher level of police activity in the area, offering a stark contrast to the more intimate setting of Shipton Abbott. These locations, alongside those in Cornwall, create a layered narrative in the series, where viewers are transported from the peaceful countryside to the hustle and bustle of city life.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of Beyond Paradise
The success of Beyond Paradise is partly due to the careful selection of its filming locations. Cornwall was chosen because of its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse landscapes, all of which contribute to the atmosphere of the series. The choice of Cornwall wasn’t just about finding a beautiful setting; it was also about creating a sense of isolation and intimacy that is crucial for the show’s tone. The stunning coastal views and historical landmarks add to the sense of mystery and drama, providing the perfect backdrop for the show’s crime-solving narrative.
The production team has worked closely with local communities to bring the filming process to life. The residents and businesses of Cornwall have embraced the series, and many have shared their experiences of seeing their hometowns appear on screen. This collaboration between the filmmakers and the local community has helped to create a genuine, authentic feel to the show’s depiction of Shipton Abbott. The impact of Beyond Paradise filming location on local tourism has been significant, with fans eager to visit the locations featured in the show, further cementing Cornwall’s place as a must-visit destination for fans of the series.
Conclusion
Beyond Paradise offers more than just a thrilling mystery; it presents a vivid and visually captivating portrayal of Cornwall. The show’s real-life filming locations, including Looe, Whitsand Bay, and the Pentillie Estate, create a rich, immersive experience for viewers, inviting them to explore the beauty and intrigue of Shipton Abbott. Whether it’s the serene beaches or the historic buildings, Cornwall’s landscapes are integral to the series, enhancing both the atmosphere and the storytelling. For fans of Beyond Paradise, visiting these filming locations provides a unique opportunity to step into the world of Shipton Abbott and experience the charm of Cornwall firsthand.
FAQs
Where is Beyond Paradise filmed?
- Beyond Paradise is filmed primarily in Cornwall, with key locations in towns like Looe, Whitsand Bay, and the Pentillie Estate.
Is Shipton Abbott a real town?
- No, Shipton Abbott is a fictional town created for the series. However, the Beyond Paradise filming locations used in the show are real places in Cornwall.
Can I visit the filming locations of Beyond Paradise?
- Yes, many of the filming locations are accessible to the public, including Looe and the Pentillie Estate.
Are there guided tours for Beyond Paradise filming locations?
- Yes, several tour companies offer guided visits to the filming locations featured in Beyond Paradise.
How has Beyond Paradise impacted Cornwall’s tourism?
- The series has significantly boosted tourism in Cornwall, drawing fans from around the world to visit the filming locations and experience the beauty of the area.
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