Beyond Paradise: The Cornish Gem that Became a Television Sensation

When Beyond Paradise premiered on ITV in 2023, it introduced millions of viewers to the stunning Cornish seaside town of Looe.

The series, starring Kris Marshall as Detective Inspector Dodds, brought the charm, beauty and character of Cornwall to television screens across the nation. What many viewers didn't realise was that the idyllic coastal setting was entirely authentic — filmed on location in one of Cornwall's most beloved seaside towns.

Looe: The Perfect Setting

Looe, a charming historic fishing town on Cornwall's south coast, has long been a favourite destination for visitors seeking authentic West Country character and stunning coastal scenery.

The town's narrow streets, colourful harbourside buildings, independent shops and welcoming atmosphere made it the ideal location for a detective drama series that needed to feel both quaint and contemporary.

For locals and visitors alike, seeing Looe transformed into the fictional setting of the series was a source of pride and recognition.

A Boost for Local Tourism

Beyond Paradise has brought significant tourism benefits to Looe and the surrounding area.

Fans of the series have flocked to the town to visit filming locations, explore the harbourside and experience the Cornish charm that captivated them on screen.

Local businesses, restaurants, hotels and attractions have all benefited from the increased visitor interest generated by the show's success.

The Production Impact

Bringing a major television production to a small town requires considerable coordination and planning.

The production team worked closely with local council, businesses and residents to ensure that filming was seamlessly integrated into the life of the town. The positive relationship between the production and the community helped establish Looe as a location for future television and film projects.

Exploring Beyond Paradise Locations

For fans of the series, visiting Looe offers the opportunity to see the real locations where the drama unfolds.

Highlights include:

• The Looe waterfront and harbour
• Local pubs and cafes featured in the series
• Historic streets and alleyways
• The surrounding Cornish countryside

West Country Television Success

Beyond Paradise is just one example of how the West Country's stunning landscapes, charming towns and vibrant communities continue to attract major television and film productions.

From period dramas to contemporary crime series, the region offers production companies everything they need to create compelling television that resonates with audiences across the UK and beyond.

The success of shows like Beyond Paradise demonstrates the region's importance to British television and the enduring appeal of West Country locations to both filmmakers and viewers.