Abstract
Examination is made of the economic role of tourist attractions. Drawing on the author's survey of tourism-related establishments in Cornwall, UK, a greater level of economic dynamism was found in the tourist attraction sector when compared to the accommodation sector. This former sector was found to make a major contribution to the economy of the area studied, although it was marked by a considerable degree of diversity. Attention is directed to the difficulties of harnessing these economic energies by applying the tools of policy analysis. Using the concept of 'policy chains', the difficulties of meeting governmental and 'private governmental' policy objectives are highlighted, focusing attention on the importance of implementation processes of policy. © 1990.