November 2025 – Why Pecorama is closing in 2026 and what it means locally.
Pecorama in Beer is one of the most recognisable East Devon attractions. Sitting high above Beer with far-reaching views over Lyme Bay, it has welcomed families, railway enthusiasts and holidaymakers for more than fifty years. Its colourful gardens, detailed model railway displays and the Beer Heights Light Railway have shaped many childhood holidays on the Jurassic Coast.
The parent company, PECO, confirmed in November 2025 that Pecorama will close for the entire 2026 season. The full announcement explains that the attraction has been profitable for only a short period each year. Rising costs and year-round overheads mean the company cannot continue to support the financial losses created outside the summer months. They note that there is hope for a future reopening in a new format, although the immediate focus will be on core work in model railway manufacturing and publishing.
Spring 2026 Update: Following PECO’s announcement that Pecorama will be closed for the 2026 season, the attraction is not operating as a full visitor site. However, it has not closed completely. A limited programme of special events is taking place on selected dates, including occasional steam train running days, alongside tours and experiences, while the PECO model railway shop remains open. Visitors should check the Pecorama website before planning a visit.
Pecorama states that it welcomes more than twenty-five thousand visitors each season. While there is no public breakdown of earlier years’ figures, long-term visitors and local tourism commentary suggest the attraction may have experienced stronger seasons in the past. For a village the size of Beer, the importance of these visitor numbers has always been clear. Pecorama has helped bring families into the area, supported small businesses and contributed to the wider visitor economy of East Devon.
The closure also includes a significant update about staff. The company has said:
“This decision of immediate closure sadly means that a few members of loyal staff have opted for voluntary redundancy. Our sincere thanks go out to all our staff and volunteers for their dedication and hard work in making Pecorama a wonderful, friendly place to visit.”
The closure occurs amid uncertainty for many visitor attractions across the country. Industry commentary suggests that although some major city sites are recovering, regional attractions continue to face pressures linked to higher operating costs and changing travel behaviour. Some well-known venues in the South West have also spoken publicly about quieter seasons compared with the years before 2020. Pecorama’s experience reflects some of these wider challenges.
Visitors have responded with warmth and sadness. The official Pecorama Facebook page has shared the announcement and received many messages from people recalling school trips, family holidays and first journeys on the miniature railway.
A community response has also begun to form on social media. A Save Pecorama Facebook group was set up in the days following the announcement, aiming to bring together people who want to explore ways to keep the attraction alive. The group’s About section explains that Pecorama plays an important role in Beer and the wider East Devon coast, drawing visitors and supporting local employment, and invites members to share ideas and support for any future reopening.
Although Pecorama will currently close throughout 2026, this may not be the end of the story. PECO has indicated that a new format could emerge, and the strong community response shows how valued the attraction remains. Anyone planning a trip to Beer or the wider East Devon coast in 2026 should check for updates, as further information may be released in due course.
If you are planning a visit to this part of the coast, you may find our local guides helpful:
Beer and Branscombe Travel Guide
Things to Do in East Devon & East Devon Beaches
Pecorama Closure 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pecorama closed in 2026?
Pecorama in Beer, Devon is closed as a full visitor attraction for the 2026 season. However, it has not shut completely, with a limited programme of special events taking place on selected dates.
Why is Pecorama closing for 2026?
PECO confirmed that Pecorama will close for the 2026 season due to ongoing financial pressures. The attraction has only been profitable for part of the year, with rising costs and year-round overheads making it difficult to sustain.
Will Pecorama reopen in the future?
There is hope that Pecorama may reopen in a new format in the future. PECO has indicated that it will review options, although no confirmed reopening date has been announced.
Is anything still open at Pecorama in 2026?
Yes. In 2026, Pecorama is open only for selected special events, including occasional steam train running days. The PECO model railway shop also remains open, along with some tours and experiences.
Can you still visit Pecorama gardens and railway in 2026?
The gardens and Beer Heights Light Railway are not open daily in 2026. Access is limited to specific event days, so visitors should check dates in advance before travelling.
How many visitors does Pecorama usually attract?
Pecorama typically welcomes more than 25,000 visitors each season, making it an important visitor attraction for Beer and the wider East Devon area.
What does the Pecorama closure mean for Beer, Devon?
The closure is likely to have an impact on local tourism, as Pecorama has long brought visitors into Beer and supported nearby businesses. The response from the community shows how valued the attraction is.
Where can I check the latest Pecorama updates?
Visitors should check the official Pecorama website and social media channels for the latest information on events, opening dates and any future plans.
Accuracy and disclaimer
Information in this article is correct to the best of our knowledge as of 18 November 2025. It draws on publicly available statements from Pecorama and other sources.
This article is intended for general information and analysis only and should not be taken as official travel advice. Opening arrangements, operating status and services may change at short notice.
Please check the latest details directly with Pecorama, local tourism bodies, transport operators and other relevant organisations before making plans. This page may be updated as more information becomes available.
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