Poldark took television by storm in 2015, proving an instant hit. It aired for eight initial episodes in the U.K., while also securing a seven-part series in the U.S. Based on historical novels written many years ago, the popular series is set in beautiful Cornwall. In every episode, viewers are wowed by scenery and countryside that is shown from the southwest of England. It has drawn many tourists to the area, and has made the South West Coast Path a very popular trail – even more so than it was before!
So why did Winston Graham decide to set his novels in Cornwall? What continues to draw people to it nowadays? Let’s find out…
The South West Coastal Path
The South West Coastal Path is one of the major tourist draws to Cornwall each year. Popular with thru-hikers (multi day hikes), day hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers alike, there truly is something for everyone on this epic trail. The South West Coastal Path runs for 1,014km, from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset.
The most popular section of this route lies in Cornwall, form Padstow to Penzance. This part of the trail is so popular and beautiful, it has been given its own name. It’s commonly referred to as ‘The Cornwall Coastal Path’, although it is part of the overall South West Coastal Path.
Cornwall And Poldark
Poldark and Cornwall – including the South West Coastal Path – have a strong connection. The show is set there, after all. So which locations in Cornwall were actually used during the filming of Poldark?
Charlestown
Charlestown is a port town, and famous for a collection of old and rather tall ships. Not only has it been used for filming Poldark, but other location scouts have also tipped it as a fantastic filming location. Dr. Who, Alice in Wonderland, and many more have all seen Charlestown as an idyllic backdrop to their productions.
Being a Grade II listed harbour, it remains untouched, giving a glimpse at the natural beauty which the surrounding area also has.
Padstow
The Padstow area is famous for its cliffs, and it’s these cliffs which feature in Poldark. Spectacular views stretch across estuaries and beaches, giving the perfect backdrop to show off the scenic location in which Poldark is filmed in.
Padstow itself is a traditional fishing village. It is surrounded by wonderful beaches for relaxation and swimming, and it situated at the top of the Camel river. As if being a scenic village wasn’t enough, Padstow is known for its culinary excellence and boasts some of the best seafood around.
Porthcurno
Porthcurno is a National Trust beach, and it is absolutely breath-taking. From beautiful sandy white beaches to dramatic cliff drops, Porthcurno is somewhere that you don’t want to miss out on. Naturally, Poldark’s location scouts plucked it from the top of the pile of places to film.
The sea water has a turquoise hue, giving an almost tropical feeling to those wishing to spend their day swimming, paddling, and relaxing on this superb beach.
Interested in hiking along the South West Coast Path scenery of Cornwall featured in Poldark? Check out our Cornwall self-guided hiking tours!
