From wild coastal cliffs to chocolate-box villages, the South West of England offers some of the most cinematic and diverse backdrops in the UK. At the very heart of this natural and architectural richness lies Cornwall—a region steeped in dramatic beauty, rich history, and unique creative energy. Whether you’re scouting for a film, TV drama, commercial, or editorial shoot, here’s why the South West, and Cornwall in particular, should be at the top of your list.
1. Breathtaking Landscapes—All in One Region
The South West offers an extraordinary variety of locations packed into a relatively small area. You’ll find:
- Rolling moorland and deep wooded valleys in Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor
- World-class beaches with golden sand and turquoise water in Newquay, St Ives, and Kynance Cove
- Sub Tropical Gardens
- Atmospheric fishing villages like Mousehole, Port Isaac, and Charlestown (the latter a frequent period drama location)
- Rugged cliffs and dramatic headlands that rival any international destination
Cornwall alone can double as anywhere from the Mediterranean to the Outer Hebrides—without leaving England.
2. The Light
There’s a reason artists have flocked to Cornwall for centuries. The light here, especially on the coast, is distinctive, soft, and golden. Long days and clean air mean hours of beautiful, natural lighting for outdoor shoots and dreamy ambient interiors. For photographers and DOPs, it’s a dream.
3. Unique Architecture and Timeless Charm
Cornwall’s built environment is as diverse as its geography. From Georgian manor houses and weather-beaten barns to sleek, modern coastal homes with floor-to-ceiling glass, there’s something to suit every brief. Old smuggler’s cottages, lighthouses, tin mines, slate farms, and boho beach retreats—all within easy reach of one another.
4. Creative, Film-Friendly Community
Cornwall has a growing reputation as a production-friendly region. Many property owners are open to location work, and there’s a strong local network of fixers, crew, stylists, caterers, and set builders. People are used to being on camera here, and they often go the extra mile to make a shoot run smoothly.
5. Favourable Permits and Access
Compared to London and other major UK cities, securing permits and access in Cornwall is often quicker, more flexible, and cost-effective. With the right local contacts (hello!), you’ll be amazed how easily you can line up an incredible range of shoot days in stunning locations without the red tape.
6. Shoot & Stay Opportunities
Many of our most popular shoot locations also offer stylish accommodation—ideal for multi-day productions, editorial retreats, or lifestyle shoots with talent and crew on-site. Whether you’re after a glamping village, coastal bolthole, or country estate, Cornwall is well set up for working holidays.
7. Cornwall is a Character Itself
Some locations just can’t be faked and Cornwall is one of them. The atmosphere, the textures, the sea air, the drama it brings an authenticity and emotion to screen that resonates. It’s no coincidence that major productions like Poldark, House of the Dragon, and Rebecca have made it their home.
At Lantic Locations, we specialise in curating the best of the South West for film and photographic shoots. Whether you’re after a cinematic coastal home, a secluded moorland farmhouse, or a quirky hidden gem, we’ll help you find your perfect backdrop and make the whole process seamless.
Get in touch to discover why Cornwall isn’t just a location it’s a scene-stealer.
