About the ‘EXPERIENCE’ project

EXPERIENCE West Cornwall was an innovative 3 year tourism project funded by EU and Cornwall Council grants, that aimed promote a sustainable, year-round economy for the West Cornwall area. The project ended in 2023 but leaves a useful legacy of research and toolkits for businesses to use to extend their seasons into the low season shoulder months.

The EXPERIENCE West Cornwall project was focused on generating sustainable cultural tourism. In addition to promoting off-season adventures to both locals and visitors, we’re making it easier for everyone to have a positive impact by encouraging the use of public transport and drawing attention to environmental initiatives.

This incredible project includes over 120 experiences and would not have been possible without the brilliant ideas, energy and support of local organisations. These include Marazion Chamber of Commerce, Visit Cornwall, Penzance BID, Newlyn Art Gallery, Access Cornwall, Cornwall 365, Sustainable PZ and the local small businesses that have been involved at every stage.

EXPERIENCE West Cornwall was a dedicated project part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Cornwall Council. It is part of the €24.5 million ‘EXPERIENCE Project’, which promotes off-season tourism and encourages spend with local businesses across six areas in the Channel region (Cornwall, Brittany, Pas-de-Calais, Compiègne, Norfolk and Kent).

Led by Norfolk County Council, EXPERIENCE involves 14 project partners in both France and the UK. The project was co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme under the Natural and Cultural Heritage funding category. Of the €16.9m ERDF committed to the total project, €2.03m was allocated to Cornwall Council, which invested a further €0.913m.

See links below for further information:

RESOURCES HUB ECONOMIC EVALUATION REPORT LEGACY EXPERIENCE WEBSITE