Popular though it may be, however, Bude still somehow manages to retain some of the small-town charm that gives it the laid-back feel locals love, and visitors to the area cherish. The town's famous sandy beaches and excellent surfing makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports aficionados, but you don't have to break a sweat here if you don't want to: the slower pace of life and family-friendly feel of the place makes it as good a choice for those who just want to get away from it all, as for those looking for an adrenaline rush on one of Britain's best beaches.
Quieter and more compact than nearby Newquay, Bude is the perfect place to relax, recharge, and enjoy a traditional British seaside holiday. Read on for some of the best things to do in Bude, for all ages and budgets.
Bask on one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain
Bude is home to some of the finest beaches in Cornwall, with Summerleaze Beach and Crooklets Beach being the two closest to town. When the resort first became popular, in Victorian times, the beaches were strictly segregated, with ladies using Crooklets Beach, while the men stayed at Summerleaze: these days, of course, both beaches - and the others in the area - are free to everyone, and are one of the main reasons the area has retained its popularity for so many decades. Of course, Bude - and Cornwall in general - is probably most famous for its surfing, and there are numerous surf schools in the area where you can borrow a board and catch some waves.
Take a dip in Bude Sea Pool
Summerleaze Beach is also where you'll find Bude Sea Pool: a tidal lido which has been a swimming spot since the 1930s, and which is totally free to use.
Visit the smallest National Trust property in the country
Hawker's Hut may be worlds away from the magnificent castles and stunning stately homes you'd usually associate with the National Trust, but it's still worth a visit, for the views alone. The hut was built to the Cornish cliffside by the poet Reverend Robert Hawker, and is made from wood salvaged from old shipwrecks. Offering stunning views of the coast, it's located on the Southwest Coast Path, and is the perfect place to stop for a break during a long walk.
Learn more about the local area at The Castle
As well as having an interesting history in itself, Bude Castle is also now a heritage centre hosting an impressive collection of local railway memorabilia, plus other artefacts and exhibitions to help you piece together the history and culture of the area. There's also three art galleries to explore, plus a cafe to refuel in when you're done, making it a full day out, whatever the weather.
Go kayaking at Tamar Lakes
Upper and Lower Tamar are two lakes close to Bude, but while Lower Tamar is predominantly used as a nature reserve, and is popular with walkers, Upper Tamar has an activity centre offering a wide range of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, windsurfing, and more. Fishing permits are also available if you fancy a day's angling, instead.
Get your bearings at Compass Point
Compass Point is a former lifeguard's shelter which is based on the Temple of the Wind in Athens, with the points of the compass carved on its sides. It's just a short walk from Bude Town Centre, and offers panoramic views over Summerleaze Beach and the Cornish coast.
Get a golf lesson from a PGA professional
A round of golf can be a great excuse to spend some time in the great outdoors, and what better way to do it than with a lesson from a PGA professional? A 60 minute lesson takes you through every aspect of your game, and is tailored to your specific skill lesson, so whether you're a seasoned player, or completely new to the sport, you won't be disappointed.
60 minute Golf Lesson with a PGA Professional
You could try improving your golfing game with books and instructional videos, but they're no substitution for tuition from the genuine article. Get some one-to-one expert advice and work on your skills with this 60 Minute Golf Lesson with a PGA Professional.
Find out more
Enjoy the tranquility of Morwenstow Parish Church
The most northerly parish in Cornwall, Morwenstow Church dates back to Norman times, and is a peaceful and moving place to visit, with headstones including the preserved figurehead from a wrecked ship, and telling the stories of shipwrecked sailors, who Reverend Hawker, during his time as vicar in the 19th century would bury in the churchyard, rather than leaving them in the sea, as was more commonly done at the time.
See a perfectly preserved Tudor Gildhouse
Poundstock Gildhouse is the only church house still in use in Cornwall. Built in the 1500s, and renovated in the 2000s, it still retains all of its Tudor charms, and provides a snapshot of days gone by.
Visit the ruins of a medieval manor house
Built in the 13th century, Penhallam Manor house itself is long gone, however the overgrown ruins of the moated manor are open to the public, and are wonderfully atmospheric, and a lovely spot for a wander: don't forget to pack a picnic!
Stroll along the banks of the canal
Bude Canal is over 200 years old and home to numerous species of animal and plant life. The four and a half mile stretch between Tamar Lake and Aqueduct Bridge is all public footpaths, and just the right length for a quiet afternoon stroll in the sun.
Play all day at The Venue
Ten pin bowling and a six floor soft play centre which includes an 8 metre drop slide makes The Venue a firm favourite with younger visitors to Bude, especially on a rainy day. This indoor attraction also has a snack bar, plus a padded play area for toddlers and babies.
Make a splash at Bude Leisure Centre
Although Cornwall is famous for its beaches, when the weather doesn't oblige, you might find yourself looking for a slightly warmer swimming experience. The pool at Bude Leisure Centre has flumes and wave machines, or, if you're more serious about your swimming, you can also choose to book a flat-water session, and concentrate on your fitness.
What is the Bude Tunnel?
Before you get too excited by this one, don't: the Bude Tunnel might sound like an awesome attraction to visit as part of your Cornish break, but it's actually something of a local in-joke! The tunnel does exist, but instead of the natural wonder the name might lead you to expect, this tunnel is made of plastic, and connects the local Sainsbury's to its car park, keeping shoppers sheltered from the elements. It became Internet-famous when someone listed it as one of Bude's top attractions as a joke, and the joke has continued, with many visitors to Cornwall choosing to stop and take photos in the famous tunnel, before posting them on their social media.
If you're looking for a true local landmark, or fascinating attraction which you can spend hours exploring, then, the Bude Tunnel probably isn't for you. If, on the other hand, you just want to have a bit of fun and get in on the joke, you'll find the stunning, see-through tunnel in the car park of Sainsbury's at Crooklet Road, Bude.
Shops in Bude
Bude's High Street offers a particularly good example of a traditional British shopping street, with plenty of independent retailers and quirky, speciality shops. It's the kind of town centre you can visit time and time again, and always find something new, and its picture-postcard appearance is exactly what you'd expect - but don't often get - from a seaside town.
- The Gallery features local artist Harry McConnville’s beautiful watercolours of Bude and the surrounding area.
- Atlantic Glass Studio makes and sells beautiful glass ornaments and jewellery from their workshop in town.
- Banfords sells a wide selection of gifts and mementoes to help you remember your trip to Bude.
- Granny Wobbly’s Fudge Pantry sells exactly what you’d expect: some of the most delicious fudge around!
- Revival is a treasure trove of vintage clothes, antiques, and other finds from a bygone age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bude good for families?
Like any other Cornish town, Bude has something for everyone. Children and adults alike will enjoy long days at the beach, complete with the obligatory ice cream and/or fish and chips, while a wander around the pretty town centre can easily occupy a few hours - or even days! History lovers and culture enthusiasts will enjoy the heritage centre and art galleries at Bude Castle, while foodies are sure to find something to suit every palate at one the town's wide selection of restaurants and cafes. Don't forget to try one or all of the local specialities: Cornish pasties, ice cream and cream teas can all be found in various establishments around Bude. On a rainy day, meanwhile, the indoor swimming pool or soft play centre are good ways to keep the kids occupied while the adults take the opportunity to relax before moving on to the next adventure.
Is Bude lively?
Although Bude is a vibrant and colourful town, with plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy, if it's nightlife you're looking for, you'd probably be better heading along the coast to nearby Newquay. Bude itself is better known for its laid back, family-friendly atmosphere than for its raucous nightlife, but, with that said, you'll still find plenty to occupy your evenings in Bude, with a wide variety of restaurants and bars, many of which are open to late, offering plenty of opportunity for socialising.