SOMERSET is hoping for a boost due to the stunning scenery playing a starring role in the upcoming film adaptation of The Salt Path.

National Trust coastal sites in the south west feature heavily in the movie – starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs as Raynor and Moth – which tells the true story of a couple who embarked on an epic 630-mile walk along the South West Coast Path from Somerset to Dorset after learning Moth was terminally ill.

Locations including Bossington, Minehead, Great and Little Hangman, Holdstone, Duckpool, Sandymouth, Morwenstow, Hawkers Hut and Middle Hope all feature in the film, which is set for release in UK cinemas on May 30.

The Salt Path has sold more than a million copies and the big-screen version will showcase the path and the surrounding area to a national and international audience.

Bossington Beach in Somerset is on the South West Coast Path. Picture: National Trust

“It was a really challenging shoot because we were carrying equipment down paths, shooting in remote locations, so all those aspects presented practical challenges,” said Elizabeth Karlsen, film producer.

Director, Marianne Elliot, added: “But the weather and the majestic natural South West landscape surrounding them played a very important role in their story.

“We always wanted to have nature as a character in its own right, but it’s quite difficult when that character never speaks, so we relied heavily on the visuals.”

READ MORE: Somerset plays starring role alongside Gillian Anderson in The Salt Path

Around 295 miles (one third) of the South West Coast Path is cared for by the National Trust, working in partnership with the South West Coast Path Association.

And the use of National Trust locations in films like The Salt Path – which in recent years has included Star Wars movies and more – brings financial benefits, as well as exposure.

Income from location fees goes straight back into conservation work to care for National Trust historic houses and landscapes.