Dairyland's emotional farewell as attraction closes after nearly 50 years
Dairyland has bid an emotional and very final farewell as the adventure park closes for good. The farm park, which announced its impending closure several weeks ago, opened for a final day on Sunday (November 3).
After nearly 50 years, those behind the family attraction said they were "filled with gratitude and a heap of sadness". The decision to close was attributed to lasting challenges created by Covid and increases in operating costs which resulted in "significant" financial losses.
Following the announcement there was a huge outpouring of love from families who said Cornwall would not be the same without the well-loved attraction. Dairyland, in a final farewell statement, said: "This past week’s Scaryland has been so much more than a Halloween celebration - it’s been a chance to say goodbye to the place so many have come to know and love."
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It added: "Over the last 49 years, we’ve had the absolute privilege of watching families grow, seeing friendships bloom, and witnessing the joy that Dairyland has brought to our guests. It’s a chapter full of unforgettable moments, laughter, and magic, and we couldn’t be prouder of every memory created here.
"To our incredible guests, thank you for choosing Dairyland, year after year, season after season. Thank you for filling this place with life, joy & laughter, for bringing your families and your stories to Dairyland. Your loyalty and love have been the heartbeat of this place, and Dairyland simply wouldn’t be the same without each and every one of you.
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"And to our remarkable team, past and present, there aren’t enough words to express our gratitude. It’s your hard work, dedication, and endless enthusiasm that has kept Dairyland alive and thriving. From the smallest tasks to the biggest events, you've put your hearts and souls into making this place special, and it’s because of you, that Dairyland has been a home away from home for so many.
"As we close this chapter, we’re not just saying goodbye to a place, but to a piece of our hearts, our home away from home. Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives, your family traditions, and your memories. We hope that Dairyland will always hold a special place in your hearts as it will in ours.
Here’s to every laugh and every magical moment shared. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. Please feel free to share your moments below, especially from our final week."
People then took to the comments to share their fond memories and thanks to the team. Some even travelled across the country to be able to visit one last time with their children.
Paying her thanks, Rebecca Brooks said her family had made "core memories" at Dairyland. "After we left last Sunday our daughter was hysterically sobbing for a good 20 minutes. Both children utterly devastated they wouldn’t be able to go again. You’ve created a special place in their hearts!"
Scott Wilcox-Wright said: "We came yesterday from Worcestershire for one last time. Our eight-year-old loves it here! Such a shame. Five years in a row we’ve visited and twice this year. Thank you for giving us lovely memories and precious family time together. All the best to all the team for the future."
Hannah Salisbury said: "Me and my daughter visited on Friday and we had the best time. It was always one of her favourite places to visit. Thank you for all of the happy memories you have given her, sad to see you close."
Dozens of others left emotive comments saying it was one of "the few places" the whole family could enjoy and that they have made some "unforgettable memories" there over the years. "Cornwall just won't be the same without you," another said.