Poldark fans can now explore the series' breathtaking locations-they're perfect for autumn

The period drama Poldark, which aired on the BBC from 2015 to 2019, captivated audiences with its stunning locations and compelling storyline. The series, which starred Aidan Turner as Ross Poldark, was watched by eight million viewers per episode.

One of the highlights of the show was the breath-taking filming locations, and this autumn and winter, the National Trust is inviting fans to walk in the footsteps of Ross and Demelza in Cornwall to mark a special Poldark anniversary. Next year (2026) will be the 80th anniversary of the publication of the first original Poldark novel, Demelza, which was published in 1946 and continues to enchant readers to this day. The original TV series, the first BBC adaptation of Winston Graham's novels, first aired 50 years ago, running from 1975 until 1977, and it's been 10 years since the acclaimed remake hit our screens in 2015, reports Cornwall Live.

One review of the 2015 series captures the passion viewers felt for Poldark: "This is the most artistic, photogenic, captivating series ever made. Besides an outstanding, lovely cast, the excellent performance by the lighting men, cameramen, director, scenery experts, colour specialists, costume creators, music score and quality scriptwriters is beyond all expectations.

"Their outstanding teamwork makes me very often freeze the image in order to better appreciate the beauty and magic of the shots: outside and inside. Breath-taking scenery and extremely cosy, authentic cottages and overwhelming rich mansions. Even the flower bouquets are mind-blowing.

"So grateful to the whole crew, they made a genuine masterpiece. A treasure to cherish forever!".

From Cornwall's wild Tin Coast and expansive shorelines to the "ancient and atmospheric" manor, Godolphin (which served as Trenwith in the 1975 Poldark adaptation), these breathtaking settings have attracted devotees from across the globe.

Godolphin's mediaeval gardens and historic manor are just one National Trust property that forms a significant element of the Poldark narrative, and the enduring impact of "Poldark tourism" continues to fund crucial conservation efforts throughout Cornwall.

Visitor numbers have aided in safeguarding threatened wildlife and habitats in Cornwall, and autumn presents the ideal season to explore the striking landscapes that sparked this beloved tale. The cooler seasons present an ideal opportunity to explore Poldark country, as visitor numbers remain lower than during summer months, allowing you to truly savour the tranquillity that Cornwall provides.

Since its launch in 1946, Winston Graham's "love letter to Cornwall", the Poldark saga, has enchanted hearts globally, whisking readers and viewers away to 18th-century Cornwall.

The dramatic vistas of mining heritage locations and untamed coastal precipices became integral to the narrative when the original television adaptation broadcast in 1975, and once more in 2015 when the revival introduced an entirely new generation to Ross and Demelza's Cornwall.

Poldark transformed into a worldwide phenomenon, motivating thousands to journey to Cornwall and discover the scenery they had witnessed on television.

By 2019, approximately 14% of Cornwall's visitors were believed to have travelled partly due to Poldark. This fascination enhanced tourism in the county while generating essential funding for the preservation and maintenance of Cornwall's natural and historical locations.

Much of this assistance has been reinvested into protecting these remarkable landscapes for future generations, with the Tin Coast concentrating on preserving natural areas and wildlife environments. At West Wheal Owles, more commonly recognised by fans as Wheal Leisure, conservation efforts have been instrumental in protecting the endangered Cornish choughs.

This area has now been cordoned off from public access to minimise disturbance, creating a sanctuary for this iconic bird species.

For those who are fond of the 1975 TV series Poldark, the name Godolphin will be familiar. In the show, it served as Francis Poldark's residence, depicted as the grand and fictional house Trenwith.

The filming took place when Godolphin was still privately owned. The National Trust acquired the estate in 2007 and embarked on an extensive and careful conservation project to preserve the house for future generations.

In 2006, Godolphin was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Since then, the estate has gained fame for its historic gardens and 500 acres of protected parkland. The house is available for holiday rentals most of the year.

Autumn is the ideal time to explore Poldark country with its quieter paths, panoramic sea views, and a feeling of stepping back into history.

From rugged coastal walks and mining heritage trails to visiting historic houses and gardens, Cornwall's National Trust sites offer visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the landscape that inspired a legend.