A popular UK staycation region has been dealt a devastating blow after two major family attractions in the area have closed their doors and pulled the plug due to affordability
Cornwall’s tourism industry has been dealt a devastating blow, as two of its most iconic family attractions have been forced to permanently shut their doors.
Dairyland Farm Park, a fixture of family holidays for nearly 50 years, closed its doors for good last weekend. The company confirmed that ongoing financial struggles were not helped by the Covid pandemic. The Newquay-based farm, which has provided generations of visitors with farm days, has become the latest casualty in the falling domino of tourism in the area. The second attraction, Flambards Theme Park, in Helston, also pulled the plug.
After 48 years in business, Flambards—famous for its thrilling rides and family-friendly shows—decided to close due to declining numbers. Both these closures are part of Cornwall’s tourism industry’s struggles to bounce back from years of pandemic-related disruption and rising operational costs.
This summer marked the worst tourist season in Cornwall in over a decade after being a favourite for staycations for a long time. Businesses that have become dependent on holidaymakers have felt the pinch too. According to figures from the South West Business Council, nearly 20% of Cornwall’s bars and restaurants have shut their doors in the past year alone. Some have blamed operational costs whilst others blame labour shortage struggles.
“We’re seeing fewer people coming down to Cornwall, and those who do are spending less. With fewer tourists around, local businesses are finding it harder and harder to stay open” says Tim Jones, chairman of the SWBC. Cornwall is facing competition from cheaper international destinations like Spain and Italy. As flights to Europe become more affordable, remote locations and costs is turning people away.
For those without a car and limited transport options in the area, it’s not the destination for everyone. Journeys to the South West can take hours on end from Manchester or London, with several transfers and forms of transportation. With the council tax hike on second homes set to take effect in April, the area will be impacted when it comes to accommodation by reducing the availability of short-term rental properties.
Travel expert Zak Ali said the ongoing decline in tourism would have to impact on Cornwall’s economy, including jobs and businesses. Tourism is worth £2 billion annually to Cornwall, accounting for 15% of the local economy. Local leaders have urged intervention and support for businesses but the question remains will Cornwall lose its top UK staycation crown question will the future of its tourism be overshadowed by cheaper options?