The return of BBC drama Poldark for a second series has sparked a surge in tourism to Cornwall, with local businesses cashing in on the phenomenon. Shops in Falmouth are selling Poldark-themed cushions, tea towels, and key rings, while visitor numbers to filming locations have risen sharply.
Nearly 10 million viewers watched the first series, and a tourism survey found that half of respondents had seen the show, with one fifth saying it prompted their visit. Locations such as St Agnes cliffs and Gunwalloe beach have seen increased footfall, and visits to the National Trust's Levant mine, which features in the series, have risen by 50%.
Tourism-related activities now include Poldark-themed kayak expeditions and dog walks, as well as quizzes to identify which character visitors resemble. However, some locals question the accuracy of the show's portrayal of Cornwall, with critics noting romanticised accents and an overly sanitised depiction of mining history.
Jon Mills, a Cornish language advocate, acknowledged the show's popularity but said the 'phoney Cornish accents make many Cornish wince.' Mike Chappell of Kernow Matters To You praised the inclusion of Cornish language but added that 'the truth of our mining heritage is brutal,' noting that two of his ancestors died in the Levant mine disaster.
Toni Carver, editor of the St Ives Times and Echo, described the Poldark effect as a 'double-edged sword,' boosting tourism but contributing to over-development and rising property prices that harm traditional communities. Despite these concerns, many welcome the economic boost, with shop owner Keven Ayres stating, 'Poldark is brilliant for us.'
