Tourism Trends and Economic Impact
Tom Jackman
This research study will explore the evolution of tourism on the Isles of Scilly over the past four decades, with a particular focus on the rise of cruise ship tourism and its economic impacts. The project seeks to map trends in visitor numbers, types of accommodation, shifts in building use (e.g. guesthouses to self-catering, private homes, and private rental), and the changing nature of tourism-related income.
Key Aims:
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Analyse historic tourism data from the 1980s to the present, including staying visitors, day-trippers, and transport modes.
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Investigate the economic impact of cruise ship tourism, which accounts for a growing share of visitors.
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Document changes in land/building use linked to tourism
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Explore perceptions of tourism’s longevity and value among islanders.
We hope this study will help to identify long term trends in the tourism sector and inform policy around the viability and longevity of the visitor economy.
If you have information to contribute, please get in touch:
Visit us in Quay House Shop, St Mary’s or use our Contact Us Form
May 2026
April 2026
Project Timeline
We were delighted to welcome student researcher Emma to the islands at the end of May. She delved into the archives of the Council of the Isles of Scilly and the Isles of Scilly Museum and the St Mary’s public library to collect and review historical records and tourism-related information.
Alongside the data-based aspects of the study, Emma also conducted interviews with a number of individuals who have strong links to different aspects of the islands' tourism sector. These conversations will add valuable local insight into the changes that have taken place over time, and the impact tourism has had on the islands as a visitor destination.
With the data-gathering phase now largely complete, Emma will begin analysing the information collected from the data sources and interviews to identify key trends and insights.
Thanks to everyone who has generously given their time and shared their knowledge with the project so far.
The first phase of the study focusses predominantly on the tourism data, using records from the 1960s to the present day and will map changes in visitor numbers and patterns in transport use.
This aspect is being delivered in collaboration with Emma Darden, an MSc student studying Sustainable Business Management at the University of Exeter.