Poldark Cornwall Filming Locations

As a nation we have been captivated by Poldark, the BBC adaption of the 18^th century novel, starring Aidan Turner. However, it can be argued that the real star of the show is the dramatic backdrop of Cornwall’s coast and countryside.

For those longing to follow in the footsteps of the cast and to discover Cornwall’s magnitude of wonderful locations, we have put together a guide to the most iconic settings used in the TV series. Look forward to discovering quaint harbour towns, wild clifftops, sandy beaches and rugged moorland, each offering the perfect setting to the series packed with action, drama and romance.

Read on to discover more about the individual filming locations used in this brooding drama…

Kynance Cove

Resting on the West side of the Lizard Heritage Coast is one of the world’s most spectacular beaches, Kynance Cove. Considered the most photographed and painted location in Cornwall, this superb beach boasts pure white sands, turquoise waters and at low tide you can explore the caves named The Parlour and The Drawing Room.

Charlestown

Situated on the outskirts of the bustling town of St Austell, is where you will find the pristine Charlestown harbour. The Grade II listed harbour, with its stunning collection of tall ships, really does take you into a bygone era and was ideal for doubling up as Cornwall’s only city, Truro, as it was back then. This wonderful port village makes the perfect 18^th century setting for Captain Andrew Blamey’s home, as well as being featured in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland.

Bodmin Moor

This designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with its wild and rugged moorland is the perfect backdrop for Ross Poldark’s cottage, Nampara. This stunning part of the countryside was also used in the dramatic shots of the cast on horseback riding across the brooding moorlands. With Cornwall’s two highest peaks, Rough Tor and Brown Willy, Bodmin Moor promises a captivating day out for anyone who enjoys walking.

Botallack Mine

This derelict stone engine house clings dramatically on the edge of the wild Tin Coast cliff, and is used as the set for Ross Poldark’s mine, Wheal Leisure. This National Trust property near St Just is part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site and offers visitors light refreshments in the Old Count House and a magnitude of coastal walks can be enjoyed.

Porthgwarra Beach

This secluded location lies just under three miles of Lands’ End and is complete with an endearing slipway, caves and tunnels, which was certain to conjure up scenes of fishermen heading out to sea for this 18^th century series. This peaceful place is where Ross was filmed swimming in the crystal blue waters, as well as the landing of the pilchard catch.

St Agnes Head

This sweep of dramatic coastal heathland is portrayed in the series as the Nampara Valley. This National Trust owned site is home to high cliff tops, sweeping heather and far-reaching views of Chapel Porth beach, Trevaunance Cove and Wheal Coates. This majestic setting gives you a quiet reminder of its rich mining history with the iconic miner’s cottages and the old engine house perched serenely on the edges of the cliffs, offering real life inspiration for the BBC Poldark adaption.

Discover even more of the beautiful Poldark filming locations in Cornwall…

If you have been inspired to explore this picturesque part of the country after watching Poldark, why not browse this selection of holiday cottages in Cornwall and walk in the footsteps of the cast yourself? For more holiday inspiration, browse our Cornwall Travel Guide. If you are seeking other fliming location guides, check out these Doc Martin filming locations. 

Image credits: Giuseppe Milo – (CC BY 2.0); zooK2 – (CC BY 2.0); Nilfanion –  (CC BY-SA 3.0);  Derek Harper –(CC BY-SA 2.0); Tim Green – (CC BY 2.0); Phillip Capper – (CC BY 2.0)

Video credit: Visit Cornwall