No surge in bookings but eclipse 'boosts footfall'

An eclipse, with the moon covering the upper right portion of the sun.

Image source, PA MediaImage caption,

The eclipse event is set to last about one hour and 50 minutes

ByArchie FarmerSouth West

Published3 minutes ago

With the partial eclipse taking place on Wednesday evening, large crowds are expected to gather in many areas in the South West and Channel Islands.

In Devon and Cornwall, the entire event is set to last about one hour and 50 minutes, starting at about 18:20 BST and finishing by 20:10.

Tourism leaders say they have not seen "a significant surge" in tourism or last-minute hotel bookings triggered by the eclipse but people attracted by the spectacle may have secured accommodation in advance.

Sarah Gibson, chief executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said the combination of the eclipse and the British Fireworks Championships in the city was sure to boost footfall in the city.

Image caption,

Visit Devon's Sally Everton said they had not seen "a significant surge in tourism or additional hotel bookings"

General manager of Visit Devon Sally Everton said "astrotourism is an important and growing opportunity for Devon".

She added: "I have spoken with several local businesses and, so far, we have not seen a significant surge in tourism or additional hotel bookings specifically linked to the eclipse.

"We have seen increased footfall this year, although visitor spend appears to be lower. It may be that many dedicated eclipse and stargazing visitors have already arrived and planned their trips well in advance."

There are a range of free and ticketed events being held in Devon and Cornwall to help people enjoy the spectacle, with venues including a spectacular beachside spot, an observatory and even a pub with its own observatory.

Everton said: "What we are hearing locally is that many local people are planning to head to key viewing locations to experience the eclipse."

Viewing locations

She said the eclipse emphasised the huge opportunities for astrotourism in the region.

"We have excellent stargazing locations, most notably Exmoor National Park, an International Dark Sky Reserve, alongside the protected landscapes of Dartmoor and other rural areas.

"Popular areas include Haytor, Hound Tor and other high points across Dartmoor, as well as Lowry Cross near Yelverton.

"Along the South Devon coast, locations such as Slapton Sands, Bantham, Bigbury and Thurlestone are also well placed, while North Devon's wide beaches at Saunton Sands, Woolacombe and Westward Ho! offer excellent open horizons.

Meanwhile businesses have reported a last-minute rush for eclipse safety glasses as people plan to enjoy the spectacle.

Peter Friend, a tourism business leader in Looe, Cornwall, said his organisation had bought 80 pairs to hand out to visitors and all had been snapped up "within 10 minutes".

'Footfall sure to be boosted'

In Plymouth the British Firework Championships are taking place alongside the eclipse, with many visitors and locals expected to enjoy the spectacle on Plymouth Hoe.

Sarah Gibson, chief executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said the combination of events boded well.

"We're expecting the combination of this sunny weather, the British Firework Championships and the eclipse to attract huge crowds to Plymouth's Waterfront areas.

"Every year the firework championships are a major draw to residents and visitors alike, right around Plymouth Sound, and businesses are preparing to host large numbers.

"We've one of the best locations in the South West to enjoy the eclipse so visitor footfall is sure to be boosted, though of course we encourage all those watching to ensure their safety by following the government's guidance."

In Cornwall, several viewing parties are also taking place as businesses expect a surge in eclipse interest.

There is set to be three air display teams taking to the skies in a free event over Falmouth Bay from 18:00, shortly before the eclipse reaches its peak.

There is also a viewing event at Perranporth Beach, among others across the county.

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