The Salt Path (2025) – British Film About South West Coast Path

The Salt Path is a British drama set for release in May 2025. Based on the bestselling memoir by Raynor Winn, the film follows a couple facing homelessness and terminal illness, who decide to walk the entire 630-mile South West Coast Path. What begins as a desperate act of survival slowly turns into a story of healing, connection, and quiet resilience.

Plot Summary

Raynor and her husband Moth are suddenly left without a home and facing an uncertain future after Moth is diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. With nowhere else to turn, they set off on foot, carrying only essentials in their rucksacks and sleeping in the wild. Their journey takes them along one of Britain’s longest and most challenging national trails — the South West Coast Path — stretching from Minehead in Somerset to South Haven Point in Dorset.

As they navigate tough terrain, unpredictable weather and their own doubts, the couple rediscovers the strength of their relationship and the beauty of the natural world. It’s a deeply human story about losing everything and finding something far greater along the way.

Cast and Crew

Gillian Anderson plays Raynor Winn, bringing quiet strength and emotional depth to the lead role.
Jason Isaacs stars as Moth, portraying a man facing physical decline with grace and determination.
Directed by Marianne Elliott, known for her work in theatre, this is her first feature film.
The screenplay was written by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, adapting Winn’s memoir for the screen.

Filming Locations

The film was shot along real parts of the South West Coast Path, adding authenticity and atmosphere. Locations include Minehead, Clovelly, Lynmouth, Padstow, and St Ives — each offering dramatic coastal backdrops that mirror the emotional landscape of the story.

Themes

At its heart, The Salt Path is about human endurance, love in difficult times, and the quiet power of nature to restore hope. It also reflects on homelessness, health, and what it means to live with uncertainty. Despite the challenges, the tone remains hopeful, showing how connection to the land — and to one another — can offer a sense of belonging even in the harshest circumstances.

FAQ – The Salt Path (2025)

When will The Salt Path be released?

The film is set to arrive in UK cinemas on 30 May 2025.

Is The Salt Path based on a true story?

Yes. It’s based on Raynor Winn’s memoir, which tells the true story of her and her husband’s walk along the South West Coast Path after losing their home.

Who stars in the film?

Gillian Anderson plays Raynor, and Jason Isaacs takes on the role of her husband, Moth.

Where was it filmed?

Filming took place along the South West Coast Path in real locations such as Minehead, Clovelly, Padstow, and St Ives.

Do I need to read the book before watching the film?

Not at all. The film stands on its own, but reading the book might give you deeper insight into the characters and the journey.

What is the South West Coast Path?

It’s a 630-mile walking trail along the coast of south-west England, running through Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset. It features heavily in the film.