Sat on Cornwall's ruggedly handsome north coast, Bude is popular with visitors seeking golden beaches, easy walking, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Plus, just a stone's throw from the Devon border, it's one of the more accessible corners of Cornwall if you're travelling from afar.
The town itself is laidback and affable, with a buzzing high street, independent galleries, cosy pubs and some excellent eateries to boot. But when the sun's out and the waves are rolling, there's no place better in Cornwall than the beach. And lucky for you, Bude has plenty! Appreciate the sea from a different vantage point and head up to the South West Coast Path for clifftop walks with soul-stirring views, or lounge on the sands watching the surfers ride the waves.
If you're looking for a seaside holiday destination boasting sweeping sands, historic and cultural attractions aplenty, and a place that's a smidge closer to home, book a stay in beautiful Bude. Need tempting? Here are just some of the best things to do in Bude during your stay…
Swim in Bude Sea Pool
For a sea dip without the swell, head to Bude Sea Pool, one of the best water activities in Cornwall. This semi-natural tidal pool has offered safe bathing since the 1930s! It’s totally free to use and you don’t need to book, just turn up and enjoy. It’s preserved, run, and promoted by Friends of Bude Sea Pool (FoBSP). The charity doesn’t get any regular town, council or government funding, so if you can donate during your visit, it’s always appreciated.
Catch a film at Rebel Cinema
Whether you’re looking for a rainy day activity in Bude or just fancy a chilled afternoon, you can’t beat Rebel Cinema. This traditional style independent cinema shows the latest big-screen releases, offering a memorable cinematic experience for locals and visitors alike.
Explore Cornwall's 'most unspoiled' church
Just a few miles inland from Bude, you'll come across St. Swithin’s Church at Launcells, described by writer Sir John Betjeman as Cornwall's "most unspoiled" church. And you can't argue with the man, it's a beauty.
Its origins date back to the late 15th century, built on parts of an earlier 14th-century structure. Today it's remarkably well preserved, inviting you to visit and check out the original wagon roofs, carved wall plates, and floor paved with 15th-century Barnstaple encaustic tiles. Plus, the setting is gorgeous, with its lush valley surrounds, quaint bridge, and gentle stream.
There are lots of beautiful churches in this area, promising a peaceful day out exploring the ancient cloisters and bell towers hidden amongst the trees.
Play at the park
Holidaying with children? Nothing quite compares to a park to run off some energy before collapsing into holiday bunk beds for some restorative slumber. And the place to head is Bencoolen Playground, just along the road from Stratton as you enter Bude.
Benefiting from a major renovation, there's state-of-the-art equipment to delight children of all ages, including a dedicated toddler area. Meanwhile, the spacious grassy area boasts picnic benches galore and is the perfect spot to relax while the little ones have some fun.
Go on a geology walk
Gripped by geology? Book a geological walk on the beach and cliff path with Dr Roger Higgs. Walks last for 3 hours and can be tailored to your requirements. A popular itinerary is the round trip from Bude to Northcott Mouth, which is a mile each way. You'll walk along the beach discussing the folded beds in the cliff, before returning south along the clifftop path. Along the way, you'll explore the fascinating geology exposed along this legendary section of the coast.
Laugh at The Bude Tunnel
No trip to Bude is complete without heading to “The Bude Tunnel”. The Sainsbury's perspex tunnel linking the store with its car park was listed on Tripadvisor, and it has become a hilarious, runaway success, securing its place as the fourth best thing to do in Bude. The comments alone are hilarious and well worth a read.
There are over 1,500 reviews with an average rating of 4.7 and the tunnel is ranked 4th out of 34 things to do in Bude. One review entitled 'The Bude Tunnel: A Transcendent Portal to Absolutely Nowhere (And Everything)' begins: “Move over Eiffel Tower. Step aside Grand Canyon. The Bude Tunnel is here, and it is the pinnacle of human achievement.” Go and see for yourself what all the (hilarious) fuss is about.
Enjoy a day at the beach
For a classic day at the beach, head to Summerleaze Beach. With its Blue Flag status, golden sands, and town centre location (complete with parking), it's a popular spot along the South West Coast Path with locals and visitors alike. The Bude Sea Pool is here too, ideal for offering swimmers of all ages a haven to splash about in. Summerleaze is great for those looking to get in the waves too, and you'll find surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding and more available here. There are also toilets and a sand wheelchair, allowing everyone to enjoy their seaside holiday to the full. Fancy a proper old-fashioned day at the seaside? Book yourself a beach hut for the day!
You could also head to Crooklets, a fantastic spot for surfers and rockpoolers. Or get off the beaten track and make for Duckpool Beach, with its untamed beauty and tranquil setting at the bottom of the Coombe Valley.
Visit the Castle Bude
The Castle, Bude’s Heritage Centre, isn't actually a castle at all. It was once the home of Padstow-born inventor Goldsworthy Gurney, who wanted to show the world he could indeed build a house on sand in 1830.
Today, this Grade II listed building is one of the town's most elegant, with its beachfront location and expansive views over Summerleaze Beach promising an unbeatable setting. Inside, you'll find the Heritage Centre, along with art galleries, a café, and a shop. It's free to get in and open daily from 10am to 4pm. Check out what's on during your visit as you might get to wander around a local art show, see some children's entertainment, or learn more at one of the historic exhibitions.
Have a go on the Monster Slip and Slide
Planning a summer holiday with kids? You can't miss one of the best pop-up summer attractions in the South West: Bude's Monster Slip and Slide. Hop aboard a bodyboard or inflatable ring and speed down the ramp and onto the 360ft monster of a slide.
Walk the Bude Canal towpath
Learn about engineering history and spot wildlife with a pleasant walk around Bude Canal and Marshes. The award-winning site is tucked behind the Tourist Information Centre. This is a fantastic option for those seeking a shorter, flatter route as the terrain is tarmac, making it ideal for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Plus, with no traffic, it’s perfect for mini hikers in the making.
As you wander, you’ll see Bude Marshes Nature Reserve, a fabulous spot to swot up on local flora and fauna. Pay close attention in the wetlands and you might spot geese, herons, kingfishers and otters.
The history of the canals goes back to the 1700s when the country thought waterways were the be-all and end-all of travel and transportation in the UK. Despite that, only a small number emerged in the South West, and one of them was right here. Finished in 1825, it was later abandoned before the local council retained the last 2-mile stretch. And we’re glad they did!
Have some fun at Budehaven Recreation Ground
Founded in 1923 as a charitable trust, Budehaven Recreation Ground is a fantastic spot for burning off some steam or indulging in a bit of lighthearted competition. Choose from crazy golf, tennis, bowling, putting, squash and table tennis.
Hire a boat
Fancy exploring the canal from the water instead? Head for the family-run Bude Rowing Boat Hire, which has been going for almost a century under the care of the Sampson family. Choose from a classic rowing boat or a novelty pedalo and enjoy the beauty and serenity of this waterway at your own pace. You can even bring your dog aboard!
Easiglide Segway
If you've always fancied trying a Segway experience, head to Easiglide, where you can test your skill on two wheels while you take in the gorgeous coastal surroundings. You might even spot an alpaca!
Stock up on local produce
If you're planning a self-catering holiday, you'll want to head to Bude Farmers Market to fill your fridge with local produce and artisan goodies. Market day is every Friday, 10am to 3pm, and runs from Good Friday until the end of September. As well as food, you'll find craft, plants, jewellery and more. Peruse the stalls at your leisure; there’s often tasty street food, which makes for a lovely lunch afterwards.
Go shopping
Bude's high street is packed with independent shops, local art galleries, and cool boutiques. In need of a wardrobe update? Head to independently-owned The Merchantman. It's the best place in Bude to stock up on men's and women's clothing, plus downstairs is a treasure trove of tempting homeware and gifts. If you're looking for a holiday read, you'll want Spencer Thorn, where you'll find a collection of books, many with a connection to Cornwall. And if you're looking for foodie gifts, pop into Bellini’s Deli Kitchen and stock up on artisan drinks, seasonal produce, and ready-made Cornish hampers.
Go birdwatching
Keen birdwatchers should head to the bird hide at Bude Canal, where you can keep an eye peeled for a rich variety of birds, including heron and kingfisher, not to mention plenty of other wildlife too.
Catch the sunset from Compass Point
Head on up to Compass Point, a beloved storm tower known locally as the pepperpot. This octagonal lookout tower, said to be modelled on the Tower of the Winds in Athens, was recently moved, piece by piece, 100m inland in order to protect it from coastal erosion. From here you'll enjoy gorgeous views out to sea and over Summerleaze Beach. It's also a fabulous spot to catch an unforgettable north coast sunset.
Tuck into something tasty
All this fun is going to require some fuel, and lucky for you, Bude is home to an amazing lineup of eateries. If you're ravenous, nothing hits quite like a pie. Head to The Cornish Pie Company and let them solve your hunger with their award-winning pies, loaded fries, crispy wings and filthy specials.
For classic beach dining, head to Life's A Beach, overlooking Summerleaze Beach. With fresh local produce front and centre, you can expect plenty of seafood and bold flavours inspired by the travels of the chefs here. In the daytime, it’s a café and ice cream parlour, but after 7pm this place turns into a special beachside restaurant serving up meals and sunset views you won’t forget.
Craving something different? Temple is a chic eatery listed in the Michelin Guide that offers up contemporary yet rustic meals in a jovial setting. Head up to the Temple Up Top bar and roof terrace for a cocktail to start, then head downstairs to the restaurant for a fixed-price menu that kicks off with a selection of snacks. Our kind of dining! Or swing by during the day when the whole place runs more like a café and grab yourself a slice of decadent cake.
Charmed by beautiful Bude? Take a look at our collection of holiday cottages in Bude and start planning your North Cornwall holiday now.
