Cold weather impacts Somerset tourism this summer

This summer, Somerset's tourism industry faced challenges due to cooler temperatures, which led to a decline in visitor numbers. The Met Office reported that this summer was the coolest since 2015, prompting concerns among local businesses. David Eddins, managing director of Mendip Activity Centre, expressed disappointment over the lower-than-expected visitor turnout, noting that rainy weather discouraged potential customers from booking outdoor activities. Anne Fox, owner of Yew Tree House Bed and Breakfast in Burnham-on-Sea, highlighted a shift in booking patterns, with fewer guests reserving rooms in advance. Traditionally, 60-70% of bookings occurred within a month of arrival, but this year saw a notable decrease. Fox mentioned that favorable weather forecasts in June prompted some last-minute inquiries from guests eager to enjoy the sun. In contrast, cities in the south west, such as Bristol and Bath, experienced a more positive summer, largely due to a steady influx of international tourists. Kathryn Davis, managing director of Visit West, noted that hotels in these urban areas performed well, benefiting from the presence of visitors from abroad. Overall, the tourism landscape in Somerset this summer was marked by a significant disparity between rural and urban areas, with the latter thriving while the former struggled. The ongoing impact of post-pandemic travel patterns and changing weather conditions continues to shape the region's tourism dynamics.