Some locals say there are fewer visitors to Cornwall so far, but tourism chiefs point to a ‘strong’ summer for the county.
Some locals say Cornwall feels emptier (Image: Getty)
Cornwall locals have said the county has “never been so empty” despite tourism chiefs predicting a bumper year for visitors. Jon Hyatt, who chairs Visit Cornwall, blamed the cost-of-living crisis and bad weather at peak times on a drop in visitor numbers last year.
Figures released earlier this year showed visitor numbers in South West England were down 10-12% in 2024, a situation which was reported as being mirrored in Cornwall. Mr Hyatt said ahead of this year’s holiday season: “I think we are heading towards a strong summer. All the indicators are there for a good season.”
His optimism was echoed by Newquay Business Improvement District manager Mark Warren. He told Cornwall Live there was a healthy influx of visitors early in the year, with the high street seeing “good” footfall at Easter.
But locals told the same publication they didn’t feel so sure. Local David Pritchard said: “I have never seen Cornwall so empty.”
Fellow local, Christopher Martin, said Cornwall was “definitely not busier”, adding: “If anything it’s quieter than normal.
“I think people can’t afford to go out as much with the extortionate prices being charged. It’s a no-brainer to jump on a plane and go all-inclusive for half the price.”
Mick Taylor agreed, saying places to stay in the county are still “very expensive”. He said this was why people weren’t eating out as much as restaurants “still think they can charge top prices”.
He said: “I am sure some will get through the summer, but wait for lots to close in September-October.”
Timothy Linsley asked: “Why do you think spending is generally down? Because it’s overpriced and too expensive.
“It is cheaper to go abroad. Reduce prices to make it more appealing to people. This is one of the poorest areas in Northern Europe. Unfortunately, people don’t expect to pay a fortune to visit.”
The tourist industry in Cornwall has faced a number of headwinds since a post-Covid surge in visitor numbers. Employer National Insurance contributions rose in April and high energy prices have cost business across the county, including in the hospitality sector.
According to figures from real estate data provider, Co Star, shared with the Telegraph, research also shows the amount Cornwall’s hoteliers bring in from each room is lower than rival destinations.
Hoteliers in Devon and Cornwall averaged £66.41 per room last year compared to the UK average of £94.57.
However, hoteliers still need to pay the bills and with a relatively shorter holiday season in Cornwall hotel budgets have to stretch a bit further than places where visitors can come throughout the year.
This makes a successful summer season all the more important for businesses which rely on Cornwall’s tourism sector.
