Somerset Tourism Bookings Down 50% Due to Rising Fuel Prices

Tourism bookings at attractions in Somerset have reportedly halved compared to last year, as rising fuel prices impact disposable income. Visit Somerset's CEO, John Turner, stated that 50% of local tourism firms experienced a significant drop in visitor numbers, with one in four firms facing increased cancellations. The Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare saw attendance decrease by 6% during Easter, while the Bishop's Palace reported a 10% decline. As costs for essentials remain high, visitors are becoming more selective, which may adversely affect local businesses across the region.