The upcoming release of the film The Salt Path is set to provide a significant boost to tourism in Somerset and Exmoor. Featuring iconic locations such as Minehead, Culvercliffe Walk, North Hill, Bossington Hill, and Porlock Weir, the adaptation of Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir is expected to draw attention to the region’s stunning landscapes. The narrative follows Raynor and her husband Moth as they embark on a monumental 630-mile walk along the South West Coast Path, beginning in Somerset and leading to Dorset, amidst Moth’s terminal illness and the loss of their home and livelihood.
With the book having sold over a million copies, the big screen rendition starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs is poised to showcase the path and its surroundings to both national and international audiences. The concept of ‘screen tourism’ is well-recognized for its ability to attract visitors, as demonstrated by the nearly £900 million contribution to the UK economy from television and film-related tourism in 2019, according to the British Film Institute.
Councillor Mike Rigby, lead member for economic development, planning, and assets at Somerset Council, emphasized the positive economic impact of filming, noting that productions inject money into local economies and drive visits to the depicted locations. The film’s representation of the beautiful county is anticipated to present a fantastic opportunity for the area, serving as a compelling showcase to potential visitors.
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Screen Somerset, in collaboration with the South West Coast Path Association (SWCPA), Exmoor National Park, Visit Exmoor, and Visit Somerset, is actively engaging to maximize the tourism potential stemming from the film’s release. Visit Exmoor and SWCPA are providing online resources on the film’s featured locations, along with accommodation options for various budgets, while encouraging sustainable travel choices such as the utilization of public transport.
Furthermore, the popular EX1 service by First Bus, previously known as the Exmoor Coaster, will operate throughout the summer, connecting the National Park with coastal towns such as Minehead, Lynmouth, and Ilfracombe. Additionally, the film’s release is seen as an opportunity to showcase the diverse coastal landscapes and vibrant communities, thereby attracting a broader audience and inspiring visitors from the UK and abroad to explore the region year-round.
As The Salt Path highlights some of Exmoor’s most stunning locations, it presents an enticing prospect to allure a wider audience and promote various outdoor activities, accommodations, eateries, local attractions, and meaningful experiences within the area, all while advocating for the preservation of the natural environment.
The film not only promises to showcase the trail to new audiences but also raise awareness nationally and internationally regarding the South West coast’s extraordinary beauty and the transformative power of walking. It is expected that the influx of film sightseers will significantly benefit the regional visitor economy, supporting local hospitality and dining establishments.
Directed by Marianne Elliott and featuring renowned actors Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs, The Salt Path has been shot in exquisite locations during the summer of 2023. Supported by the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, Screen Somerset is dedicated to supporting, encouraging, and celebrating filming activities in the county due to the economic and broader advantages associated with film production.
The film’s spotlight on the captivating Exmoor spots is a cause for excitement, with efforts underway to capitalize on the associated tourism benefits while preserving the distinct landscape and ensuring a safe and sustainable experience for new visitors to Exmoor.