Introduction

The BBC’s Beyond Paradise is back with big news for fans, especially those in Devon and Cornwall. Filming for Season 4 kicked off in late July 2025, bringing the quirky crime drama set in the fictional Shipton Abbott to the stunning South West coast. This Death in Paradise spin-off, starring Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman, has hooked viewers with its blend of clever mysteries, heartfelt character arcs, and jaw-dropping scenery. The announcement, shared via posts on X and local news outlets like DevonLive, confirms more episodes packed with puzzling cases and the cozy charm of Devon and Cornwall. Why does this matter? For locals, it’s a chance to see their hometowns on screen, boosting tourism and pride. For fans, it’s another season of Humphrey and Martha’s adventures. Think of it like catching your favorite detective show filming in your backyard—it’s exciting, personal, and a little surreal.

Why Beyond Paradise Resonates with Audiences

Beyond Paradise isn’t just another crime drama—it’s a love letter to the South West, wrapped in witty dialogue and intricate plots. The show’s appeal lies in its ability to balance cozy vibes with gripping mysteries. According to DevonLive, Season 3 averaged eight million viewers, making it one of the UK’s top new dramas in 2023. Fans on X are buzzing about the Season 4 announcement, with posts like @BeyondPOfficial’s July 29, 2025, tweet hyping “puzzling twists and turns.”

Why does this matter? The show’s setting in Shipton Abbott, filmed in places like Looe, Cornwall, showcases the region’s beauty, from rugged cliffs to quaint harbors. Kris Marshall told Best Magazine he loves filming by the coast, citing “vitamin sea” as a mental health boost during grueling 70-hour workweeks. But it’s not just scenery—viewers connect with Humphrey and Martha’s evolving relationship, like their fostering journey in Season 3. Common mistakes in similar shows? Rushing plots or neglecting character depth. Beyond Paradise avoids this by weaving personal stories, like Martha’s Ten Mile Kitchen venture, into each case. If the show leaned too heavily on crime without heart, it’d lose its charm.

New Filming Locations in Season 4

The Season 4 announcement highlights expanded filming locations across Devon and Cornwall, a move that’s got locals and fans talking. Posts on X from @BBCDevon and @BBCCornwall on August 10, 2025, teased “more locations” for the new series. While Looe remains a key spot, expect fresh backdrops like Mothecombe Beach and Charlestown, as cast members shared with the BBC. Kris Marshall raved about Rame Head’s “stunning views” and its abandoned military site, perfect for dramatic scenes.

Filming in these spots isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s strategic. South East Cornwall’s quieter vibe during tourist season makes it ideal for production trucks, as Tim Key, executive producer, told The i. But there’s a catch: some locals, per chef Ben Palmer, grumble about the tourist influx, despite the 444% booking spike at The Sardine Factory, featured as Ten Mile Kitchen. Mistakes here? Ignoring local concerns could sour community support. The payoff? Showcasing lesser-known spots boosts tourism and puts Devon on the map.

What to Expect from Season 4’s Storylines

Season 4 promises more of Beyond Paradise’s signature mix: mysteries, humor, and heart. The show’s official X account teased “puzzling twists” and a focus on Shipton Abbott’s sunny shores. After Season 3’s cliffhangers—like Esther’s breakup with Archie, played by Jamie Bamber—fans are speculating about reconciliations or exits. A post from @JamieBamberFans on August 7, 2025, expressed excitement over Archie’s arc post-breakup.

Why does this matter? The show thrives on balancing personal drama with cases, like Season 3’s “Devil’s Hump” mystery involving a nurse’s disappearance. Common pitfalls in spin-offs? Losing the original’s spark. Beyond Paradise sidesteps this by keeping Humphrey’s quirky detective style while grounding him in a new setting. If the writers overload on subplots, though, it could dilute the main cases. Expect Martha’s restaurant expansion to play a big role, with The Sardine Factory’s real-life success mirroring her fictional growth.

The Impact on Devon and Cornwall’s Tourism

The show’s filming locations are more than pretty backdrops—they’re economic drivers. The Sardine Factory, used as Ten Mile Kitchen, saw bookings jump from 45 to 245 in a week after Season 3 aired, per DevonLive. Chef Ben Palmer told the Daily Express that while some locals resist the tourist boom, many embrace the spotlight on Looe. Dylan Llewellyn, who plays PC Kelby, called Looe’s accommodating vibe “special” for filming.

This matters because tourism fuels small towns, but overcrowding can strain resources. Mistakes? Productions ignoring local input risk backlash, as Palmer noted with “kickback” from some residents. The upside? Increased visibility, like Looe’s harbor or Rame Head’s coves, draws visitors who spend at local businesses. If handled poorly, though, it could alienate communities. Season 4’s new locations could amplify this, spotlighting hidden gems while challenging local infrastructure.

Cast Favorites and Behind-the-Scenes Insights

The cast’s love for the South West adds authenticity to Beyond Paradise. Kris Marshall shared with the BBC that Mothecombe Beach’s secluded bathing house is a cozy retreat during night shoots. Zahra Ahmadi, who plays DS Esther, called Charlestown a standout for its beauty, while Jamie Bamber reminisced about Cornwall’s “romance” from childhood visits. These personal connections make the show feel grounded.

Why’s this key? Actors invested in their setting elevate performances, but long shoots—70 hours a week, per Marshall—can burn them out. Mistakes like over-scheduling could lead to flat scenes. The cast’s enthusiasm, like Dylan Llewellyn’s praise for Looe’s community, keeps morale high. If Season 4 leans into these real experiences, it’ll deepen its charm. Ignoring them risks a disconnected vibe.

Challenges of Filming in the South West

Filming in Devon and Cornwall isn’t all sunny beaches. The region’s weather can be unpredictable, and Zahra Ahmadi noted that even tricky terrain doesn’t dim the cast’s gratitude for the stunning locations. Tim Key told The i that finding spots with good transport links, like Looe near the A38, was crucial for logistics. But locals’ mixed feelings about tourism, as Ben Palmer shared, pose challenges.

This matters because smooth production keeps costs down and schedules on track. Common errors? Underestimating weather or community pushback. If ignored, these could delay shoots or strain local relations. The reward? Authentic settings that make Beyond Paradise stand out. Season 4’s expanded locations will test this balance, demanding careful coordination to maintain the show’s quality.

FAQs

What new locations will Season 4 of Beyond Paradise feature?

Season 4 will include familiar spots like Looe and new ones like Mothecombe Beach and Charlestown. Kris Marshall highlighted Rame Head’s dramatic views, while Zahra Ahmadi praised Charlestown’s beauty. These locations, chosen for their scenery and accessibility, aim to showcase more of Devon and Cornwall’s charm. Expect coastal backdrops and hidden gems to enhance the show’s visual appeal.

Will Esther and Archie reconcile in Season 4?

Fans are speculating after Esther’s breakup with Archie in Season 3. A post from @JamieBamberFans on X hints at excitement for Archie’s arc, but no official confirmation exists. The show often weaves personal drama into cases, so their story could evolve. Ignoring this thread risks disappointing viewers, but a rushed resolution could feel forced.

How does Beyond Paradise boost local tourism?

The show’s filming in Looe and other spots has spiked tourism, with The Sardine Factory seeing a 444% booking increase. While some locals resist, many embrace the exposure. Mistakes like ignoring community concerns could spark backlash, but done right, it drives economic growth. Season 4’s new locations could further amplify this.

Why is the South West setting so important?

The Devon and Cornwall backdrop gives Beyond Paradise its unique vibe, blending cozy charm with dramatic cases. Kris Marshall’s love for “vitamin sea” reflects how the setting grounds the cast. Choosing less touristy spots like Looe avoids overcrowding issues, but poor planning could disrupt locals. It’s a delicate balance that defines the show.

Is there a crossover with Death in Paradise planned?

Josephine Jobert, who played Florence Cassell, hinted at a possible Beyond Paradise guest spot during a 2024 Instagram Q&A. Season 1 featured a Death in Paradise crossover, so it’s plausible. Fans would love it, but forcing crossovers without story justification could feel gimmicky. No official plans are confirmed yet.

Conclusion

Beyond Paradise Season 4 is shaping up to be a treat for fans and Devon locals alike. With filming underway in stunning spots like Looe, Rame Head, and Mothecombe Beach, the show continues to blend clever mysteries with the South West’s natural beauty. Its impact—boosting tourism while navigating local concerns—shows its real-world weight. From Kris Marshall’s coastal love to the cast’s behind-the-scenes stories, the human touch keeps viewers hooked. Expect more of Humphrey and Martha’s journey, maybe even a Death in Paradise cameo. Curious about the new cases or locations? Share your thoughts or check out Beyond Paradise on BBC iPlayer!