The Channel 5 documentary Cornwall: A Year by the Sea returned this week with its second episode, offering an intimate look at Cornwall’s bustling summer season. The popular four-part series, which celebrates the county through the changing seasons, aired new footage focusing on the impact of soaring tourism on local residents and businesses.
Viewers were introduced to key players such as pasty makers, surf instructors, and wedding venue owners, whose livelihoods are deeply intertwined with the influx of visitors. However, the episode also shed light on the personal toll tourism can take.
Bartender Scott shared a heartfelt account of losing his home after his landlords converted his long-term rental into an Airbnb. “I was living there for five years,” he explained. “My friend next door was there for 10 years. Then suddenly, we were given just one month’s notice to leave.” Forced into homelessness, Scott spent nearly two weeks living in a tent under difficult circumstances.
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Thankfully, a local charity, Disc Newquay, stepped in to help Scott secure new accommodation. He soon found employment as a barback at the Headland Hotel, where he quickly impressed his employers. “I’m not quite on Tom Cruise’s level with cocktails,” Scott joked, “but I know how to make them!”
Veryan Palmer, director of the Headland Hotel, praised Scott’s dedication and rapid rise from barback to bartender, expressing hope that he will soon take on a supervisory role. Scott reflected on his journey, saying, “I’m so fortunate to have found Veryan, a great place to live, and an amazing job. Just a month ago, I didn’t think this was possible.”
Veryan also discussed the complex relationship Cornwall has with tourism. “It’s always a challenge in such a beautiful area,” she said. “Tourism is a vital source of jobs and revenue—we need visitors to keep local businesses alive.”
Cornwall: A Year by the Sea continues on Channel 5 this week, airing Thursday and Friday at 7pm, with episodes also available for streaming.