"Green Shoots" Visible for Tourism in Devon and Cornwall Despite Challenges

Devon and Cornwall tourism

Tourism in Devon and Cornwall is showing signs of recovery, despite several top attractions in the regions not reaching pre-pandemic visitor numbers. According to data from the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA), while some sites have struggled, there are positive indicators that the tourism sector is slowly regaining momentum.

Visitor Trends in Devon and Cornwall

In 2024, figures revealed that only three out of the 12 most visited attractions in Devon and Cornwall saw an increase in visitors compared to 2019. These include Haldon Forest, St Michael's Mount, and Tintagel Castle, which posted gains in footfall. However, many other attractions experienced declines. Tate St Ives saw the most significant drop, with a 37% decrease in visitors, while Saltram in Plymouth and the Eden Project in St Austell were down by 34% and 33%, respectively.

Despite the setbacks, tourism professionals remain optimistic about the future. Jon Hyatt, chairman of Visit Cornwall, noted that there are "green shoots of optimism," particularly as the region heads into the busy Easter and summer seasons. "Visitor numbers for February half-term are looking strong, consumer spending is up, and the Visit Cornwall website is seeing record traffic," he said. "While the situation isn’t perfect, positivity is certainly present compared to the challenging 2024."

Eden Project: A Strong Start to 2025

The Eden Project, which remains the most visited attraction in Devon and Cornwall, saw a slight dip in visitors in 2024, with 673,625 visitors—down 6% from 2023. However, the site remains optimistic, with a spokesperson highlighting that the attraction had a positive start to 2025, with February half-term visitor numbers increasing by 27%. This surge is seen as a promising indicator for the tourism sector moving forward.

Resilient Attractions and New Openings

While some attractions like St Michael's Mount and Tintagel Castle experienced slight declines in visitors, others showed growth. Haldon Forest and Cardinham Woods, for example, both saw increases in visitor numbers, with rises of 10% and 14%, respectively. RHS Garden Rosemoor also reported a modest increase in attendance, with a slight rise from 237,660 visitors in 2023 to 238,030 in 2024.

Looking ahead, new attractions are set to open in 2025, which Hyatt believes will offer visitors "authentic and unique experiences" that go beyond the typical Instagram photo opportunity. "Consumers are now more focused on finding true, memorable experiences they can’t get anywhere else," he added. The region’s investment in evolving with consumer demand is expected to benefit the tourism sector in the long run.

Economic Factors and Recovery Outlook

Despite the challenges, including the ongoing effects of the cost-of-living crisis and rising business costs, the tourism industry is showing steady growth. ALVA director Bernard Donoghue explained that the UK’s broader recovery from the pandemic continues to influence visitor numbers, and increases in wages and national insurance costs have led to job cuts at various attractions.

Nevertheless, the outlook for tourism in Devon and Cornwall is cautiously optimistic. "The numbers may not be huge, but there is definite growth in certain areas," said Donoghue. "The sector is still in recovery mode, but we are seeing gradual improvement."

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Tourism in Devon and Cornwall

While 2024 was a challenging year for the tourism sector in Devon and Cornwall, there are clear signs of recovery. With increasing interest from consumers, new attractions set to open, and a renewed focus on offering unique, authentic experiences, the region’s tourism industry is well-positioned for a stronger 2025. Despite the hurdles, there is a palpable sense of optimism, making Devon and Cornwall a promising destination for travelers seeking fresh experiences in the coming year.