On the north coast of Cornwall, close to its border with Devon, the lively town of Bude is perfect for a day out or a longer break.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Swim in a pool
Nestled in the rocks at Summerleaze Beach, the unique Bude Sea Pool offers a safe and scenic way to enjoy the Atlantic without strong waves. Whether you go for brisk cold water swimming or for a splash around with the family, it is a special spot for unwinding. It also has a gift shop on site to remember your trip by, which stocks tea towels, beanies, puzzles, jewellery, and more. Free entry, budeseapool.org
Climb on the cliffs
Coasteering is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Bude’s iconic rocky coastline. OA Surf Club offers guided sessions which will take you through natural arches and into sea caves, as well as help you jump into the crystal clear Cornish sea to discover hidden beaches. Sessions last for two hours, and all the equipment you’ll need is provided. £45, oasurfclub.co.uk
Segway around the town
Want to soak in everything from sea views to rolling countryside? EasiGlide offers segwaying experiences for families with little ones aged seven and above, all led by a trained instructor. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, including gloves, during the colder months. Each session will last between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how fast you pick it up. £33 adult, £27 child, bude.easiglide.co.uk
Relax on the beach
No matter if the weather is sunny or the wind is brisk, coastal views are always a treat. The main sandy beach in Bude is Summerleaze, with its colourful rows of beach houses and spacious shores to stretch out on. Surfers and rock-poolers will also love Sandymouth, which sits along a stretch of coast between Bude and Morwenstow and has a dramatic backdrop of sheer cliffs. Free entry, visitbude.info, nationaltrust.org.uk
INDEPENDENT SHOPS TO VISIT
Spencer Thorn
This bookshop has been run by the same family for over 50 years, and is a real treasure trove for thoughtful presents. Along with brilliant books, it stocks toys, stationery, jewellery and home and wellbeing products. These range from popular brands such as Jellycat, Wrendale Designs, and Caroline Gardner, as well as unique items by local makers. It also regularly hosts bookish events, from readings to talks. spencerthorn.com
Budeful Ltd
The award-winning Budeful designs gifts that are all about celebrating Bude, making it the perfect spot for picking up souvenirs. Think t-shirts that say ‘Bude is my happy place’, doormats with the Bude Pepperpot, and even surfboard bottle openers. Plus, every time you purchase from it, the shop plants a tree. budeful.com
Wildwood
See all the boho beauty at Wildwood, which is set in a 19th-century re-purposed cottage. It has an eclectic range of colourful clothing (we love the block print knot headband and Taruni pyjamas), as well as jewellery and homeware. For those who love all things mindful, it also has yoga accessories, crystals, and incense sticks and holders. It has a huge range of eco-friendly and Fair Trade products, meaning you can shop with sustainability in mind. wildwoodcornwall.co.uk
FOOD AND DRINK SPOTS
Elements
Perched above Summerleaze Beach, Elements offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Bude Harbour. The menu is filled with dishes starring local ingredients, from fresh seafood to pizzas and small plates. It is also suitable for families, with a special children’s menu. Complementing the food is a fabulous selection of wines, craft beers, and cocktails. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset dinner or a relaxed drink on the terrace, it is one of the best spots in town for alfresco scenic views. elements-life.info
Electric Bakery
Loved by locals and tourists alike, this artisan bakery serves all sorts of croissant flavours, jam-packed pastries, as well as delicious cakes. It also has breakfast sandwiches and lunch specials on Saturdays. Outdoor seating is available, or simply takeaway (you’ll want a loaf of its sourdough, trust us). Make sure to go early, as the fresh bakes sell out very quickly. electricbakery.co
PLACE TO STAY
The Pink House Bude
A chic yet playful home, The Pink House Bude is conveniently located right next to Crooklets Beach. The open-plan living space is built for hosting indoors and outdoors, and opens up to the terrace – wonderful for enjoying sunsets and sea views. If you are planning on spending the day at the beach, there’s a special surf room with hot showers and Zuma Jay bodyboards to borrow. It also has six bedrooms, which can sleep up to 16 people, as well as six bathrooms. From £1,625 a week, aspects-holidays.co.uk
