Award-Winning Tourism Businesses Navigate a Challenging Year

In Widegates near Looe, Richard and Emma Liddle, who manage a glamping business, were observed arranging fairy lights for a festive outdoor bar on a blustery cold day. Ms Liddle stated, “Enticing guests and locals out of season is one of the things we try and do, along with always providing extras like meals cooked by local chefs.” The seven cabins managed by the couple, all featuring sea views and equipped for what they describe as a “high end” glamping experience, secured them the “Winner of Winners” title at the Cornwall Tourism Awards last month. Nevertheless, 2024 has proven to be a challenging year, a reality acknowledged by other businesses within the tourism industry. Ms Liddle identified poor summer weather, the uncertainty surrounding the General Election, and the cost of living as key challenges. She stated, “We worked so hard this year and hardly took a day off. Normally by June we’re fully booked for the summer holidays, but for the last two weeks of August we were having to take one or two night stays.” Ms Liddle added, “We are always thinking what more can we do to adapt to the changing tourism environment. We keep going and just don’t give up.” Mr Liddle suggested that “pent up foreign holiday demand” following the pandemic had an impact on this year’s bookings. However, he expressed optimism that individuals will “ditch the airport scenario and holiday more locally again.” He further commented, “I think there’s been perhaps a bit of over-tourism post Covid and its ruffled a few feathers but I don’t think it will continue in the future.” He concluded, “There’s plenty of tourism to go around and I believe people will start to return to Cornwall shortly.” Darren Wills, the landlord of the Old Inn and Restaurant located in St Breward atop Bodmin Moor, was also among the award recipients. He mentioned that attracting customers could sometimes be challenging, emphasizing the necessity of promoting and advertising hospitality businesses. Mr Wills, who has managed the pub for 25 years, stated that he has navigated through two recessions, a smoking ban, and the pandemic. He indicated that the cost of living represents the most recent challenge and attributed his award to his team of 35 staff members and their dedication to quality. He asserted, “It’s no good cutting corners in business these days, you have to supply the best in customer service and your products.” He elaborated, “Not only on the bar but in the kitchens and have a good staff behind you.” Last month, two long-established Cornish parks, Flambards and Dairyland, ceased operations due to financial pressures. In contrast, Keith Southwell, the managing director of Lappa Valley Steam Railway, reported a positive year. The family attraction, situated near Newquay, introduced a new train in February and was awarded bronze in the Large Visitor Attraction category. He stated, “It is all about investing in your business, having great people around you and listening to what your customers want. It isn’t really about value for money – it’s value for quality.” For updates, follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.