The show Doc Martin is a hit for fans of medical dramas. The series has been airing since 2004 and boasts 10 seasons. Along with its witty nature and main characters’ unique personality, the show also has a picturesque setting. The main character, Dr. Martin Ellingham, is a brilliant surgeon who leaves London to become the general practitioner of Portwenn (a fictional place). Dr. Martin certainly feels a culture shock once he moves to the rural fishing village. The show explores his journey adjusting to the quirky town. So, the fictional village of Portwenn is an integral piece of the show’s narrative. Interested travelers can visit the real-life destinations that helped bring Doc Martin to life.
Check out where Doc Martin was filmed and what travelers can do and see at the filming locations.
Port Isaac, Cornwall
- Key Scenes: interior and exterior shots
- Best Time to Visit: May or June to avoid crowds and for best weather
- Transportation Options: by car, train or bus
This fishing village is the main filming location for Doc Martin. Port Isaac in north Cornwall is the main filming destination of the show. The European destination is the home of the popular television series that is set in the fictional village Portwenn.
It is a popular tourism location due to its connections to the show. There are even signs for travelers throughout the village to direct them to the most popular filming sites. Brochures and maps that provide more information on filming locations are available at local stores. The informational pamphlet is even considered a nice souvenir for travelers that want to remember their experience in the village.
Travelers are encouraged to walk around the village to explore. The port is a scenic place to visit on foot. Interestingly, the port was originally named Port Wen, so there is some truth to the filming destination being a real-life version of the Doc Martin setting. Visitors can check out the well-known musical group Fisherman’s Friends, a famous shanty group from Port Isaac. The natural environment is also breathtaking, so travelers can simply take in the sites during their trip. There is plenty for travelers to do while exploring this quiet seaside village.
Things to Do: There are outdoor areas like the Port Isaac Harbour and the North Coast of Cornwall that are popular with travelers. Travelers can take a Doc Martin Tour, North Cornwall guided tour, visit the Cliffside Gallery or attend a Fisherman’s Friends performance.
Where to Eat: Although Port Isaac is a relatively small location, there are plenty of delicious foods for travelers to try at any budget. Fresh From The Sea, The Mate, Nicki B’s Pasty Shop and Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen are the top dining options around Port Isaac.
Where to Stay: Port Isaac offers charming and historic accommodations with incredible harbor views. Some of the highest rated places to stay are The Slipway B&B, Old School Hotel and Morningside B&B.
Fern Cottage, Port Isaac
- Key Scenes: Doc Martin’s home
- Best Time to Visit: avoid weekends due to crowds
- Transportation Options: walking or take a car
Doc’s house is, of course, one of the places that are featured in the series. The real place that was used for filming is Fern Cottage. It is a rental cottage with two bedrooms and a cozy stone exterior. Travelers can have a one night stay or extended stay at the cottage. The cottage is a tourism site so visitors like to take photos of the exterior of the cottage to commemorate their trip. At times, the outside of the cottage can be crowded since it is a stop during show tours. But travelers will have no trouble finding the cottage even if they do not stay there. There are directories around the streets leading up to the cottage.
Things to Do: While there is plenty to do in this area of Port Isaac, travelers are encouraged to take full advantage of all the Doc Martin experiences. Including the walking tours that include Fern Cottage.
Where to Eat: The best eateries near Fern Cottage include Outlaw’s New Road, The Slipway and Cornish Cove Tearoom.
Where to Stay: Fern Cottage is an exceptional place to stay, especially because it is central to the best things surrounding the show. Sea Cove Cottage is another great option for fans of the series.
Sea Cove Cottage, Port Isaac
- Key Scenes: Louisa in/around her home
- Best Time to Visit: during Spring for best views
- Transportation Options: the bus or car
The Sea Cove Cottage is one of the recognizable places where Doc Martin was filmed. It is the location where the character Louisa (Dr. Martin’s partner played by Caroline Catz) lives. Her house is a cottage located down a hill with ideal harbor views. The cottage is actually rentable, so many fans book this holiday home to experience the world of the show. Travelers should note that this home is only rentable for over a week. But the required extended stay at this home is definitely worth it, since it has an impressive private patio, a spacious interior and antique features.
Things to Do: For travelers that want to enjoy a more immersive experience, they can visit Port Isaac Pottery and local spots. This location presents handmade pottery pieces and has a connected art gallery. The shop even has a nice seaside view. There are also walk and talk tours, shops with treats to check out and sealife safaris around the area.
Where to Eat: The Golden Lion, Port Gaverne Restaurant & Hotel and Port William (Trebarwith Strand) are some of the highly rated culinary experiences that travelers enjoy.
Where to Stay: Of course, there is no better accommodation than one that has literally been in the show. So the Sea Cove Cottage is one of the best places to stay for fans. The recently renovated cottage has airy decor and two spacious bedrooms.
The Golden Lion Pub, Port Isaac
- Key Scenes: village watering hole
- Best Time to Visit: during spring for best weather
- Transportation Options: by car
This pub was a major location for filming Doc Martin. In fact, it is the only pub in the real village of Port Isaac. The Crab and Lobster is the fictional pub in the show. The Golden Lion Pub was used to capture the fictional pub. Travelers may notice that the Crab and Lobster sign is still up on the building. This sign is an indication for fans of the show that the filming took place there. Travelers often appreciate this feature from the show and take plenty of pictures.
Things to Do: Some travelers prefer to simply enjoy the environment while visiting Port Isaac. Travelers can opt to rent bikes to get around town or check out the views of the coastline.
Where to Eat: The Golden Lion is a locally famous spot with direct connections to the show. The British bar is popular for its fish and chips, fresh mussels and tasty drinks.
Where to Stay: There are many comfortable accommodations in the central Port Isaac area. Trewetha Farm B&B and Westaway Guesthouse are the top rated bed and breakfasts, according to travelers. They are both close in proximity to the beach.