The Esplanade Hotel Blog

Cornwall, with its dramatic coastline, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes, has become a sought-after filming destination. From Hollywood blockbusters to beloved TV series, this picturesque county offers a diverse range of breath taking backdrops, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush countryside.

Doc Martin

Doc Martin showcases the quaint charm of Cornwall's villages, particularly through the picturesque town of Port Isaac, which serves as the fictional Portwenn. This idyllic seaside village, with its winding streets, traditional cottages, and stunning harbour views, provides the perfect setting for the show’s light-hearted yet heartfelt narrative. The surrounding cliffs and coastal paths add to the scenic beauty, making the location an integral part of the series' identity. At its heart, Doc Martin follows the life of Dr. Martin Ellingham, a brusque yet brilliant doctor who relocates to Portwenn after developing a phobia of blood. The show explores themes of human connection, community, and personal growth, with the striking Cornish landscape complementing the humour and poignancy that define the series.

Beyond Paradise

Beyond Paradise is a captivating portrayal of life in Cornwall, offering a blend of mystery, humour, and heartfelt storytelling. Filmed in the picturesque town of Looe in Cornwall, the show captures the breath taking coastal beauty of this charming seaside location, showcasing its stunning beaches, quaint streets, and vibrant harbour. The picturesque landscapes, with their rolling hills, serene beaches, and quaint market towns, become a character in their own right, enhancing the immersive storytelling. At its core, Beyond Paradise follows the life of DI Humphrey Goodman as he starts a new chapter in his career and personal life. Returning from the fictional Saint Marie in Death in Paradise, Humphrey brings his endearing quirks and sharp detective skills to solve intriguing local crimes. The series highlights themes of renewal, belonging, and the warmth of community, all underpinned by the stunning Cornish scenery that breathes life into every episode.

Fisherman's Friends

The Fisherman's Friends film, released in 2019, is a heart warming true story about a group of fishermen from the small Cornish village of Port Isaac. The film follows the real-life journey of the Fisherman's Friends, a sea shanty singing group who rise to fame after being discovered by a music producer. Set against the stunning backdrop of Cornwall’s rugged coastline, the film captures the charm of the region and the community's close-knit bond. It blends humour, music, and heartfelt moments, with the iconic sea shanties becoming a central theme throughout. The film celebrates friendship, community, and the power of music, all while showcasing the beauty of Cornwall.

Poldark

Poldark brings to life the rugged beauty of Cornwall’s landscapes, intertwining stunning visuals with a captivating storyline. Many of the show’s iconic scenes were shot at real-life locations steeped in history and grandeur. For instance, the dramatic cliffs of Botallack serve as the backdrop for the show’s historic tin mines, reflecting Cornwall’s rich mining heritage. The sweeping beach of Holywell Bay and the picturesque cove at Porthcurno are also prominently featured, drawing viewers into the region’s natural splendour. Narratively, Poldark revolves around Ross Poldark’s return to Cornwall after the American Revolutionary War, where he grapples with rebuilding his life amidst personal and societal turmoil. Themes of love, betrayal, and resilience are woven throughout the series, with Cornwall’s breath taking scenery amplifying the emotional depth and intensity of the characters’ journeys.

Playing Nice

Against the backdrop of Port Isaac, a picturesque fishing village in Cornwall, Playing Nice showcases how the group navigates their growing success while maintaining harmony within their tight-knit community. The challenges of ‘playing nice’ comes into focus as personalities clash and decisions about their future test their bonds. Despite these struggles, the group finds strength in their shared love of music and their deep connection to their roots, reminding viewers of the importance of compromise, understanding, and collaboration in preserving both friendships and traditions.