Walk the Salt Path: Discover North Devon’s Filming Locations and Coastal Walks
Inspired by Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir The Salt Path, walkers from across the world are retracing the couple’s epic journey along the South West Coast Path. If you’re looking to walk a stretch of this iconic route, North Devon offers some of the most cinematic and soul-stirring spots. In fact, the upcoming film adaptation starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs was shot at several locations right here. And Byron Woolacombe is your perfect base to explore them all.
Salt Path Filming Locations in North Devon
These key locations were chosen for filming The Salt Path, showcasing North Devon’s rugged charm and visual drama:
Clovelly
A village unlike any other, Clovelly clings to the cliffs with cobbled lanes and whitewashed cottages tumbling down to the sea. In The Salt Path, Raynor and Moth stop here to rest and experience unexpected generosity:
“The waitress came back with a carrier bag of pasties and sausage rolls. ‘I hate waste. Thought you might like these.'” (The Salt Path)
Local tip: Don’t drive down — park at the top and enjoy the walk in. It’s part of the charm, and gives you the same sense of arrival that Raynor and Moth felt – but perhaps enjoy reminiscing the film over a glass of your favourite in the Red lion pub, romantic or what!
Valley of the Rocks (near Lynton)
This mythical landscape of dramatic cliffs and feral goats features in both the book and film. Its prehistoric beauty made it a perfect stand-in for the emotional, transformative moments in Raynor and Moth’s journey.
Local tip: Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the most atmospheric views and a chance to watch the most dramatic of sunrises or sundowners — and to avoid the crowds. Also stop by Mother Meldrums for an atmospheric brew!
Hartland Quay
Former harbour with a history of shipwrecks and a popular film location Hartland is wild, remote and raw. Hartland marks one of the most visually striking stretches of coast with its unusual rock formations and rockpools. The film used this location to capture the sense of exposure and resilience at the heart of the story.
Raynor writes about the difficult yet beautiful terrain as they walk through the Hartland stretch:
“We passed Hartland Point in silence, the cliffs rising and falling, the path turning sharply and steeply, the sea always below…”
Local tip: Wear sturdy boots — this stretch is breath-taking but tough going. Reward yourself with a pint at the Hartland Quay Hotel.
Ilfracombe
With its historic harbour and artistic vibe, Ilfracombe is another filming location featured in the adaptation. It’s also where walkers can pause to enjoy local food and culture while on the trail.
Local tip: Visit the Damien Hirst statue ‘Verity’ on the seafront and grab a locally-made gelato by the quay
Other Stunning Salt Path Stops in North Devon
These destinations may not feature in the film, but they appear in the book or are simply too beautiful to miss if you’re walking the path:
Right on the edge of Exmoor, Combe Martin is described in The Salt Path as a moment of reflection:
“We followed the path past Combe Martin and the darkness of Exmoor pressed closer.” (The Salt Path)
Local tip: Explore the south west coast path and walk up to little hangman – not only are the dramatic views incredible you get a chance to visit the local nudist beach ‘Wild Pear’.
A dramatic, jagged headland known for shipwrecks and seals. The path here is steep and exhilarating — just the sort of landscape Raynor and Moth walked through as they rebuilt their lives.
Local tip: Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks below. Best seen on a calm day with binoculars.
A breathtaking walk just beyond Woolacombe. From sea-carved cliffs to golden beaches, this area embodies the coastal wildness of the Salt Path journey.
Local tip: Sunset here is spectacular — pack a flask and enjoy the view.
A secretive cove tucked between Ilfracombe and Mortehoe. Its secluded atmosphere reflects the solitude and discovery of the memoir.
Local tip: Tide times matter here — check before you explore the rock pools or smugglers paths – and definitely visit The Grampus for a post walk pint!
Right on Byron’s doorstep, this award-winning beach offers three miles of sand and surf. The South West Coast Path runs directly behind it, making it a great starting point.
Local tip: Woolacombes main beach is a stunner, but don’t forget to visit the other smaller beaches within walking distance, Grunta, Combesgate and Barricane!
Stay at Byron Woolacombe: An Official SWCP Waymaker
Byron isn’t just a luxury retreat on the coast — it’s also an Official Waymaker for the South West Coast Path. That means you can collect your passport stamp here, get tips on the best walking routes, and relax in style after a day on the trail.
- Coastal apartments just off the path
- Indoor pool, gym, sauna & guest services
- Steps from Woolacombe beach
- Local partner discounts from Surfing to Segway trips!
- The Salt Path – borrow the book from our onsite team during your stay!
Whether you’re planning a short break or your own version of The Salt Path, Byron Woolacombe is your ideal North Devon base.
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