Beyond Paradise: Discovering Devon's Stunning Filming Locations

 Explore the breathtaking Devon filming locations of BBC’s Beyond Paradise, from Buckfastleigh’s charming streets to its historic abbey. Plan your visit now!

Introduction

If you’re hooked on Beyond Paradise, the BBC’s hit crime drama spun off from Death in Paradise, you’re not alone. The show, set in the fictional Shipton Abbott, follows DI Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall) and DS Esther Williams (Zahra Ahmadi) solving quirky crimes in Devon’s coastal beauty. As a fan, I couldn’t resist visiting the real-life locations that bring this series to life.

Devon’s rolling hills, quaint villages, and historic sites are as much a character as the detectives. From Buckfastleigh’s bustling high street to the South Devon Railway’s murder mystery vibe, these spots are worth the trip. 

The Express reported on May 27, 2025, that fans are flocking to these sites, boosting local tourism. Why does this matter? These locations aren’t just pretty backdrops—they shape the show’s cozy yet thrilling tone, and visiting them feels like stepping into the story. Let’s dive into where Beyond Paradise is filmed, why these places matter, and one spot that’s begging to be featured.

Buckfastleigh: The Heart of Shipton Abbott

Buckfastleigh, a charming Devon town, doubles as the fictional Shipton Abbott. Walking its high street, you’ll recognize spots from the show instantly. The Express noted that during filming, the town buzzes with summer bunting and locals sharing stories of meeting Kris Marshall. It’s not just a set—it’s a living, breathing place. The high street’s independent shops, like Dough (transformed into a chocolate shop for the show) and Plum (rebranded as Snip and Style), get full makeovers for filming. 

This creates an authentic vibe but can confuse visitors expecting to find a fudge shop. A common mistake? Assuming these shops are permanent—check filming schedules on BBC’s site to avoid disappointment. If you miss the real shops, you’ll lose the local flavor, like sipping coffee where Humphrey might’ve stood. Visiting Buckfastleigh lets you relive scenes, but it’s the community’s pride in their Beyond Paradise connection that makes it special.

South Devon Railway: A Murder Mystery Haven

The South Devon Railway in Buckfastleigh is a standout location, featured in the 2024 season two opener as a murder mystery setting. The episode’s Agatha Christie-style plot, with a fatal twist during a play rehearsal, used the railway’s vintage charm perfectly. 

According to The Express, the railway now offers a “Train to Nowhere” murder mystery experience by Murder by Appointment. Guests attend a 1950s-themed event, solving a fictional murder tied to a remake of Brief Encounter.

It’s immersive, but book early—slots sell out fast, especially post-episode. A mistake fans make is showing up without tickets, expecting walk-ins. Without pre-booking, you’re stuck watching the train chug by. The railway’s eerie vibe and historical trains make it a must-visit, tying directly to the show’s crime-solving heart. Check South Devon Railway’s site for event dates to plan your trip.

Buckfast Abbey: A Hidden Gem Waiting for the Spotlight

Buckfast Abbey, a short walk from Buckfastleigh’s center, hasn’t appeared in Beyond Paradise yet, but it’s a location screaming to be included. This working monastery, rebuilt by French monks in 1882 after Henry VIII’s dissolution, is a architectural marvel. Its medicinal and decorative gardens, with ancient oaks and vibrant flowers, offer a serene contrast to the show’s mysteries. The abbey’s stained-glass window, an 8-meter masterpiece by Charles Norris (installed in 1968), bathes the church in rainbows. It’s free to visit, with a cafe and gift shop selling monk-made herbs. Fans often overlook it, assuming it’s just a tourist spot, but its dramatic potential is undeniable. If the show’s fourth season, set to film in 2025 per BBC, uses it, expect iconic scenes. Not visiting? You’ll miss a spiritual and visual gem that could shape future episodes.

The High Street’s Transformation for Filming

The high street of Buckfastleigh is a chameleon. Shops like Dough, a wine bar, became a chocolate shop, and a coffee bar turned into a fudge shop for Beyond Paradise. The Express reported locals love sharing photos with the cast, but these transformations can mislead visitors. Why does this matter? The makeovers create the show’s cozy aesthetic, but they’re temporary. A common error is expecting to find “Snip and Style” instead of Plum the salon. Always check filming updates on X or BBC’s site before visiting to know what’s real. If you don’t, you might wander looking for nonexistent shops. The high street’s charm lies in its adaptability and the locals’ enthusiasm, making it a must-see for fans wanting to feel the show’s vibe.

Why Devon’s Locations Matter to the Show

Devon’s landscapes aren’t just eye candy—they define Beyond Paradise. The rolling hills, coastal cliffs, and historic sites like Buckfastleigh give the show its unique blend of quaint and mysterious. The Hollywood Reporter noted on May 28, 2025, that location-driven dramas like this boost regional tourism by 20%. Fans visit to feel closer to the story, but picking the wrong season (like rainy winter) can dampen the experience—summer’s best for vibrant streets. If locations were generic, the show would lose its soul. Devon’s authenticity draws viewers in, making every episode feel grounded. Check Visit Devon’s site for travel tips to align your visit with filming or peak scenery.

Ethical Challenges in Filming Real Locations

Filming in real towns like Buckfastleigh raises ethical questions. The Express highlighted that locals sometimes feel disrupted by road closures or crowds during shoots. Productions must balance storytelling with respect for residents. A common mistake? Crews overstaying permits, causing friction—BBC’s 2025 filming schedule promises better coordination. If not managed, community goodwill fades, impacting future shoots. Visitors should respect private areas, like homes near sets, to avoid trespassing. Ethical filming preserves Devon’s charm for fans and locals alike, ensuring Beyond Paradise can keep using these stunning locations.

The Future of Beyond Paradise’s Locations

With season four filming starting soon, per BBC’s May 2025 update, new Devon locations might appear. Buckfast Abbey seems a likely candidate, given its visual appeal and proximity to Buckfastleigh. Fans on X are buzzing about potential Cornwall spots too, like Looe, used in earlier seasons. A mistake is assuming all locations are in Devon—check IMDb for exact sites. If the show ignores places like the abbey, it misses a chance for richer storytelling. Keep an eye on BBC iPlayer for updates on new episodes, set for Spring 2026, to spot fresh locations.

FAQs

Why do Beyond Paradise’s locations feel so real?

The show uses real Devon towns like Buckfastleigh))^. Buckfastleigh’s streets and shops, like Dough and Plum, are temporarily transformed to match the fictional Shipton Abbott, per The Express. This authenticity, paired with local cooperation, creates a believable world. Visiting these spots feels like stepping into the show.

Can fans visit Beyond Paradise filming locations?

Yes, Buckfastleigh and South Devon Railway are open to visitors. The railway’s murder mystery events, inspired by the 2024 episode, require pre-booking via their site. Buckfast Abbey is free, with gardens and a cafe. Check BBC’s filming schedule to avoid disruptions.

How do locals feel about filming?

Locals are proud but face disruptions, per The Express. Road closures and crowds can frustrate residents. Ethical crews, as BBC aims for in 2025, minimize impact. Visitors should respect private property to maintain goodwill.

What makes Buckfast Abbey a potential filming spot?

Its stunning architecture, stained-glass windows, and historic gardens make it ideal for dramatic scenes. The Express suggests it’s perfect for Beyond Paradise’s cozy yet mysterious vibe. Fans hope it appears in 2026’s season four.

What mistakes do fans make visiting these locations?

Fans often expect permanent shop makeovers, like Dough’s chocolate shop, but they’re temporary, per BBC. Check filming updates on X or Visit Devon. Missing seasonal timing, like winter rain, can dull the experience.

How does filming affect Devon’s tourism?

The Hollywood Reporter (May 2025) notes a 20% tourism boost from Beyond Paradise. Fans flock to Buckfastleigh, but overcrowding can strain locals. Plan visits via Visit Devon for quieter times.

Conclusion

Beyond Paradise’s Devon filming locations, from Buckfastleigh’s high street to South Devon Railway, bring the show’s cozy crime world to life. Buckfast Abbey’s untapped potential could elevate future episodes. These spots aren’t just sets—they’re real communities with stories to tell. Plan your visit with BBC’s schedule or Visit Devon to catch the magic. Share your favorite Beyond Paradise location in the comments!