Quest for film locations worthy of Harry Potter

Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter in the TV series which has been filmed in the South West

An organisation supporting film productions in Devon is on a mission to map out the county's most film-worthy locations, building a comprehensive database to attract more productions to the region.

From windswept moors to chocolate-box villages, the film office is working to ensure Devon's landscapes are front and centre in the UK's screen industry.

Recent high-profile productions such as a Harry Potter TV series have already demonstrated the county's appeal.

Claire Horrocks, who leads the initiative for Screen Devon, said the goal was to make it easier for producers to find the perfect backdrop for their stories.

Olivia Colman, centre, with Sunita Amin, left, and Ncuti Gatwa, right, inside the Winking Prawn in Salcombe

Ms Horrocks said she spent much of her time scouring maps and connecting with property owners who might be willing to host shoots.

"We get some wonderfully bonkers requests," she told BBC Radio Devon. "Sometimes they're looking for places that can double as New York State forests or vast empty roads. Woodlands and abandoned buildings are especially in demand."

In June 2024, crews from The Roses, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman, transformed eatery The Winking Prawn in Salcombe into a fictional seafood restaurant called We've Got Crabs.

Meanwhile, a new Harry Potter TV series has been filming across Devon and Cornwall, with confirmed locations including Cadgwith, Carnglaze Caverns, and reportedly Lustleigh in Devon.

"We know that when that TV series goes out it's going to have a great knock-on effect with screen tourism," said Ms Horrocks.

"It is a great example of having a significant production here, and the boost to not only the local economy, but the buzz," she added.

Ms Horrocks said the impact of big productions goes far beyond the shoot itself.

"Seeing how proud people are in Devon, in the area, to be hosting a TV production, whatever it is, but it's really great to see the knock-on effect.

"I know production are using local crew, not only local locations."

Ms Horrocks encourages anyone with unique or underused spaces, especially woodlands, derelict buildings, or unusual landscapes, to get in touch.

"The more we know, the more we can offer," she said. "And the more productions we can bring to Devon."