Devon's Magical Hunt for Spellbinding Film Spots Inspired by Harry Potter

Devon is becoming a popular destination for film and television productions, thanks to the efforts of Screen Devon, an organization dedicated to promoting the county's unique locations. Their mission is to create a detailed database of Devon's most film-worthy spots, making it easier for producers to choose the perfect setting for their stories. The region offers a variety of landscapes, from wild moors to charming villages, which have already attracted high-profile projects like the Harry Potter TV series.

Claire Horrocks, who leads Screen Devon, spends much of her time searching maps and reaching out to property owners who might be interested in hosting film crews. She explained that producers often have unusual requests, such as locations that can stand in for New York State forests or long, empty roads. Woodlands and abandoned buildings are especially sought after. In June 2024, the film The Roses, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman, transformed a local café in Salcombe into a fictional seafood restaurant for their scenes. Other productions have filmed in places like Cadgwith, Carnglaze Caverns, and Lustleigh, showing the wide range of settings available in Devon and nearby Cornwall.

The impact of these productions goes beyond just the filming. According to Ms Horrocks, having a major TV series shot in Devon can boost tourism, as fans want to visit the places they see on screen. It also helps the local economy, as film crews hire local workers and use local businesses. People in Devon feel proud to host these productions, and the excitement spreads throughout the community. Ms Horrocks encourages anyone with unique or underused spaces, such as woodlands or old buildings, to contact Screen Devon. The more locations they can offer, the more likely it is that new productions will choose Devon as their backdrop, bringing even more benefits to the area.