February half term 'really important' for tourism

February half term is "really important" to the South West's tourism industry, according to the boss of one Devon attraction.

"Around 5% of our business will come in this one week," said James Hull, general manager of prehistoric caves Kents Cavern in Torquay.

It comes after a "challenging year" for some in the South West tourism sector in 2024, but Patricia Yates, chief executive of Visit Britain, said she felt "optimistic" about 2025.

"We have great strengths, we have great culture, great destinations and good stories to tell," she said.

First opened to the public in the 19th Century, Kents Cavern is a system of caves once occupied by prehistoric humans and Ice Age animals.

"Last year was difficult," said Mr Hull.

He added the attraction saw "record breaking" sales in November, December and January after a big marketing push to attract more visitors.

Barry Sullivan, who was visiting the site from Plymouth, said it was an "incredible attraction".

"It's bringing people in and that's what places like Torquay need, it requires visitors," he said.

Ms Yates said the South West was the "bedrock" of the UK's domestic tourism industry.

"When people think of going on holiday, the first place they think about is the South West," she said.

But some South West tourism attractions are bracing themselves for a difficult year following the closure of some of the region's biggest venues, including Flambards and Dairyland in Cornwall.

Speaking to the BBC ahead of half term, the owners of Paradise Park in Cornwall said increased costs and a drop in visitors since the Covid-19 pandemic were affecting them.

Nick Reynolds, who runs the attraction with his sister Alison Hales, said: "We're under pressure, like all businesses but we love what we're doing here.

"What we really need is for people to come and see us. That's the main point for us."

Sue Jewell, who runs dog friendly accommodation near Liskeard and is chair of South East Cornwall Tourism Association (SECTA), said: "It's looking about the same as last year, which was pretty flat.

"There is anxiety.

"Most of us would be fairly booked up for the summer season and we're all seeing gaps."

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].