Kris Marshall’s Beyond Paradise Return: Filming Buzz in Cornwall

 Kris Marshall returns as Humphrey Goodman in Beyond Paradise, filming in Cornwall for 2025. Learn about the excitement, locations, and fan reactions. Read now!

Introduction

Kris Marshall is back as Detective Inspector Humphrey Goodman in Beyond Paradise, the Death in Paradise spin-off that’s got fans hyped. Filming for season 4 started in Cornwall in July 2025, and the internet’s already buzzing with photos and posts from excited locals. Why’s this a big deal? Marshall’s quirky, bumbling detective is a fan favorite, and his return to the fictional Shipton Abbott promises more cozy crimes and heartfelt moments with Martha Lloyd, played by Sally Bretton. 

The show’s Cornish backdrop, from Looe’s harbor to historic estates, isn’t just eye candy—it’s driving tourism and local pride. A July 18, 2025, X post from @MattZeeMiller shared a snap of a “BP Unit” sign at St Mellion Golf Club, sparking fan frenzy. Let’s dig into why Marshall’s return matters, where they’re filming, and how it’s shaking up Cornwall.

Why Kris Marshall’s Return Matters

Kris Marshall’s Humphrey Goodman is the heart of Beyond Paradise. He first won fans over in Death in Paradise from 2014 to 2017, solving crimes in the Caribbean with his awkward charm. When he left Saint Marie for Martha, fans were gutted—until Beyond Paradise launched in 2023, pulling 8.7 million viewers for its first episode in a month, per The Standard.

Why’s he so popular? His mix of sharp detective work and clumsy sincerity clicks with audiences. Bringing him back for season 4 keeps the show’s momentum. A mistake some spin-offs make is recasting leads, but keeping Marshall avoids alienating fans. If they’d swapped him out, viewership could’ve tanked. Filming started in July 2025, and fans are already speculating about new cases on X. Expect more of Humphrey’s chaotic genius in 2026.

Filming in Looe: Shipton Abbott’s Core

Looe, a Cornish fishing town, is the main stand-in for Shipton Abbott. Its seven-arch Looe Bridge, built in 1854, and Fore Street’s market square are instantly recognizable. The Guildhall doubles as the police station where Humphrey and DS Esther Williams (Zahra Ahmadi) crack cases. Why Looe? Producer Tim Key told iNews it’s a “thriving community with fishing businesses,” not just a tourist spot. 

Filming here from July to November 2025 means long days—sometimes 10-12 hours, per Pentillie Castle. A common mistake is picking overly crowded locations, but Looe’s quieter vibe helps crews work efficiently. Fans crowding sets can delay shoots, so if you visit, keep your distance. Looe’s authenticity grounds the show, but overtourism could strain locals if fans aren’t respectful.

Port Eliot and Pentillie: Historic Backdrops

Port Eliot House and Gardens in St Germans is a major filming spot. The Stables café becomes Martha’s Ten Mile Kitchen, and the Grade I-listed estate plays Shipton Abbott’s manor house. Pentillie Castle, near Saltash, is Humphrey and Martha’s riverside cottage and quay, seen in season 1’s boat-buying scene. Why these estates? Their historic charm and seclusion make filming easier than in busy towns. 

Pentillie Castle noted crews film up to 12 hours daily, relying on local pasties for fuel. A mistake is underplanning logistics—heritage sites need careful handling to avoid damage. Fans can visit Port Eliot’s gardens or book tours, but Pentillie’s quay is private. Filming trucks were spotted in 2025, so expect these locations in season 4. Don’t trespass—security’s tight, and disruptions cost time.

Charlestown and Rame Head: Coastal Vibes

Charlestown’s Georgian harbor appeared in a season 3 episode, with its tall ships adding maritime flair. Rame Head, a headland with a medieval chapel, is a Kris Marshall favorite. He told Countryfile its “stunning views” and abandoned military site make it perfect for filming. Why use these? They’re visually distinct but not overrun with tourists, unlike some Cornish spots. 

A common error is filming in chaotic locations, leading to delays. Beyond Paradise sticks to quieter areas for smooth shoots. Filming was spotted in Charlestown in 2025, hinting at more coastal scenes. Visit Rame Head for a hike or Charlestown for history, but don’t interrupt active sets—it can halt production and frustrate crews.

Fan Excitement and Social Media Buzz

Fans are over the moon about Marshall’s return. A July 2025 X post from @MattZeeMiller showed a “BP Unit” sign at St Mellion Golf Club, with comments like “Can’t wait!” and “Excellent” pouring in. Another fan shared a production notice about July-to-November shoots in East and West Looe, per The Express. Why’s this buzz important? It shows the show’s loyal base, which drove 8.7 million viewers for season 1’s premiere. A mistake is ignoring fan engagement—Beyond Paradise leans into it, with locals invited to sets. Fans hoping to appear as extras should check notices but avoid crashing shoots. Unruly crowds can delay filming, so respect schedules if you’re nearby.

Tourism Boost and Local Impact

Beyond Paradise is putting Cornwall on the map. The Sardine Factory in Looe, renamed Ten Mile Kitchen in the show, saw a 444% booking spike after season 1, per Cornish Times. Owner Ben Palmer told the outlet fans flock to eat where Humphrey dined. Why does this matter? TV-driven tourism pumps money into local economies but can overwhelm small towns. A mistake productions make is ignoring community impact, leading to tension. Beyond Paradise keeps locals happy by using quieter spots and engaging residents. Filming through November 2025 will likely draw more visitors, so support businesses but don’t block streets for selfies—it strains goodwill.

Challenges of Filming in Cornwall

Filming in Cornwall isn’t all smooth sailing. Crews face 10-12 hour days, navigating narrow streets and unpredictable weather. Pentillie Castle noted the logistical challenge of moving equipment around heritage sites without damage. Rain can delay shoots, and summer crowds complicate things. A common mistake is underestimating these issues, causing budget overruns or missed deadlines. Beyond Paradise mitigates this by sticking to less touristy areas like Looe and Pentillie. If they mess up planning, the 2026 release could slip. Fans can help by staying clear of active sets—wandering into shots wastes time and money. Keep an eye on X for 2025 filming updates.

FAQs

Why is Kris Marshall’s return to Beyond Paradise a big deal?

Kris Marshall’s Humphrey Goodman drew 8.7 million viewers for Beyond Paradise’s first episode, per The Standard. His quirky charm is a fan favorite, and recasting him could’ve lost viewers. Fans on X, like @MattZeeMiller’s July 2025 post, show excitement for his 2025 return.

Where is Beyond Paradise filming in 2025?

Filming is in Cornwall, mainly Looe’s harbor, Fore Street, and Guildhall, plus Port Eliot and Pentillie estates. St Mellion Golf Club hosts production trucks, per The Express. Charlestown and Rame Head may return. Shoots run July to November 2025.

Why film in Cornwall instead of Devon?

Cornwall’s quieter vibe and community feel, like Looe’s fishing port, suit the show’s tone. Producer Tim Key told iNews Devon’s overdone in TV. Cornwall’s accessibility, near Plymouth and the A30, helps logistics. Busy spots cause delays, so Cornwall’s ideal.

Can fans visit filming locations?

Looe’s public areas, like Fore Street, and Port Eliot’s gardens are open. Pentillie’s quay is private. Check schedules—filming through November 2025 may restrict access. Don’t trespass; it disrupts shoots and risks removal.

How does filming impact Cornwall?

The show boosts tourism, with Looe’s Sardine Factory seeing a 444% booking spike, per Cornish Times. But crowds can strain towns. The crew engages locals to maintain goodwill. Visitors should respect sets to avoid tension.

What’s next for Humphrey and Martha in season 4?

After season 3’s emotional fostering storyline, fans hope for a happy ending, per The Express. Plot details are secret, but 2025 filming in Looe and estates suggests more cozy crimes. Check X for fan theories.

Conclusion

Kris Marshall’s return as Humphrey Goodman in Beyond Paradise has fans buzzing, with filming in Cornwall’s Looe, Port Eliot, and Pentillie Castle creating a vivid Shipton Abbott for 2025. From the 444% tourism boost at Looe’s Sardine Factory to X posts like @MattZeeMiller’s, the excitement is palpable. Filming through November 2025 brings challenges, but the crew’s smart location choices keep things on track. Whether you’re a fan or planning a Cornish visit, respect local sets and enjoy the show’s charm. Share your favorite Beyond Paradise moment in the comments or plan a trip to see Looe’s magic!