Nestled on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, Bude is a charming seaside town known for its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant outdoor activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking to relax by the sea, Bude offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for every traveller. Here, we’ll explore some of the best activities and attractions near Bude, ensuring an unforgettable visit to this picturesque corner of Cornwall.
Bude Beaches: A Paradise for Sunseekers and Surfers
Bude is blessed with an array of beautiful beaches, each offering unique charm and outdoor fun. Summerleaze Beach is a popular choice with its golden sands, calm waters, and iconic tidal pool. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly fun. Just a short walk away, Crooklets Beach is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting wave riders of all skill levels. For those seeking solitude, Sandymouth Beach offers rugged cliffs, rock pools, and breathtaking scenery, ideal for coastal walks and wildlife spotting.
Bude Canal: A Tranquil Waterway for Paddlers and Walkers
The Bude Canal is a serene waterway winding through the town, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and leisurely walks along its scenic towpath. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from local outfitters and explore the canal at your own pace, soaking in the sights and sounds of the countryside. For a more relaxed experience, stroll along the towpath, admiring the historic locks, bridges, and wildlife-rich habitats. Keep an eye out for herons, kingfishers, and other birds that call the canal home.
Bude Sea Pool: A Unique Swimming Experience
Perched on the edge of Summerleaze Beach, the Bude Sea Pool is a unique tidal swimming pool offering safe and refreshing seawater swimming for visitors of all ages. Built in the 1930s, the pool is filled with fresh seawater at high tide, providing a sheltered and calm environment for swimming and paddling. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing dip on a warm summer’s day or a peaceful swim while watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. The pool is free to use and maintained by volunteers, making it a beloved community asset.
Coastal Walks: Explore Bude’s Stunning Clifftop Trails
Bude boasts some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Cornwall, best experienced by exploring its clifftop trails. The South West Coast Path passes through Bude, offering miles of scenic walking routes showcasing the area’s rugged cliffs, sandy coves, and panoramic views. Follow the path north towards Hartland Point or south towards Crackington Haven, stopping to admire the dramatic rock formations, seabird colonies, and wildflowers that adorn the coastline. Don’t forget your camera – the views are truly breathtaking!
Adventure Sports: Thrills and Excitement for Adrenaline Junkies
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Bude offers a wide range of adventure sports and outdoor activities. Surfing is a popular pastime, with several surf schools offering lessons and equipment hire for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Coasteering is another thrilling activity combining swimming, scrambling, and cliff jumping along the rugged coastline. For a bird’s eye view of the landscape, try zip lining or abseiling at nearby adventure parks. Whatever your preferred activity, Bude has something to satisfy your appetite for adventure.
Exploring Marazion Beach
While Bude offers plenty of activities, a visit to Marazion Beach, located further south along the Cornish coast, is highly recommended. Marazion Beach boasts stunning views of St. Michael’s Mount, a tidal island crowned by a medieval castle and church. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, beachcombing, or simply soaking up the sun while enjoying the picturesque scenery. After a day of exploration, head to The Surf Club at Marazion Beach for a delightful dining experience. Renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, The Surf Club combines global cuisine with fresh, local ingredients from Cornish land and seas. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down lunch with friends or a crepe on the go, The Surf Club has you covered. Seating options include the Kitchen, Champagne Bar, Sea Lounge, and The Garden, ensuring a satisfying and scenic meal.
Conclusion
From sun-drenched beaches and tranquil waterways to exhilarating adventure sports and scenic coastal walks, Bude offers a wealth of attractions and activities for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this picturesque corner of Cornwall. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Bude, England’s southwest gem.
