Poldark tourism boom predicted

0
3309

A boom in Cornwall tourism is being predicted thanks to the new Poldark television series starting this weekend (March 8).

Poldark will be screened on BBC One every Sunday evening for the next eight weeks.

And while some scenes were shot in Wiltshire, Gloucester and Bristol, cameras mainly rolled at locations across Cornwall, with everywhere from Charlestown to Porthgwarra taking a turn in the spotlight.

The Visit Cornwall tourism service is maximising exposure for Cornwall from the drama by creating Poldark-themed holiday ideas and competitions, as well as by working with tourism partners to host national journalists on Poldark experiences.

Poldark cast and crew filming at Porthgwarra
Poldark cast and crew filming at Porthgwarra

Head of Visit Cornwall, Malcolm Bell, said: “Primetime coverage such as this can have substantial impact on a destination. You’ve only got to look at the Rosamunde Pilcher adaptations which can be credited with much of Cornwall’s popularity among German visitors, or Doc Martin’s phenomenal success in Australia and New Zealand, to see how far reaching the impact can be.

“If the initial reviews are anything to go by, Poldark looks set to be a massive hit and with 12 novels in the Poldark series there is potential for it to run and run. The opportunity is there to be seized and I look forward to working with the tourism industry to turn the success of the production into a success for Cornwall.”

The Council’s portfolio holder for economy and culture, Julian German, added: “Through Poldark, Cornwall has been offered a valuable showcase.

“With the series running until the end of April, the profile boost will coincide with the Easter break and when people are starting to make bookings. It is hoped that the stunning scenery will inspire viewers to visit for themselves and discover the mining heritage which plays a central role throughout the story.”