A popular tourist attraction near Newquay has announced it is closing down as it is no longer financially viable.

Dairyland Farm Park is earmarked to shut for the final time on Sunday, November 3.

The owners, who bought the attraction in 2019, said that despite two record seasons in a row under new management, the challenges of COVID and the ongoing increase in operating costs have resulted in the park making a significant financial loss every year.

Their plan is to transform the site into a new farm shop, café, play area, and spaces for local small businesses. Paulos Circus, which has been operating from Dairyland during the summer, will be invited to use the site in the future. The owners have said the animals will be found “loving” new homes.

The family fun park has been welcoming visitors since opening in 1975 to see the various animals and activities on offer, which includes the Bull Pen, the Cornish Life Museum, tractor rides and the Pony Express.

A Dairyland spokesperson said: “It is with the deepest regret that we have to announce the closure of Dairyland Newquay.

“Since purchasing the park in 2019 the team have strived to make the park economically viable, and despite two record seasons in a row under new management, the challenges of Covid and the ongoing increase in operating costs have resulted in the park making a significant financial loss every year which we cannot continue to support.

“We will find all of our animals’ new homes where they will be loved and treasured, as they have been at Dairyland.

“The park will be open for one final week in October for Halloween, after which we will be closing the park for the last time at 5pm on Sunday, November 3. During October the Bullpen will be open Friday between 12pm and 5pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am and 5pm. The park will close September 29 as we begin our Halloween preparations.

“We are so very grateful for the support and kindness given to Dairyland over the years, and we know how much of a loss this will be for everyone who has grown up with Dairyland in their childhood.

“We wanted to confirm that we have not sold the park.

“Our plan now is to keep the site and transform it into a destination with a new farm shop, café, play area, and spaces for local small businesses to work and grow.

“We understand how difficult this decision is for everyone, but it’s one we had to make. It’s been a privilege to be part of so many childhood memories, and we’re thankful for that. Last but not least, The Paulos Circus will continue use this as their home, as they wish.”