Storm Watching & Starry Nights

Things to Do in Bude in Winter: Cozy Beach Huts, Storm Watching & Starry Nights

When summer ends, the Cornish seaside doesn’t lose its charm — it simply changes character. Bude in winter is quieter, wilder, and in many ways, even more romantic. The waves grow stronger, the skies more dramatic, and the beaches open up for moments of peace and togetherness. If you’re wondering what to do in Bude when the weather turns cold, here’s how to make the most of the season.

Cozy Up in a Beach Hut

One of the best ways to enjoy the beach in winter is from the shelter of a beach hut. With a flask of hot coffee, a couple of blankets, and your loved one by your side, a hut becomes a warm retreat from the blustery sea air. From inside, you can watch the Atlantic waves roll in while staying snug and dry.

Where to rent: Beach huts are available to hire at Summerleaze and Crooklets Beach. Book in advance online.

Storm Watching by the Sea

Bude’s coastline is dramatic year-round, but winter is when the sea truly comes alive. Storm watching from a beach hut is a thrilling experience: safe behind wooden walls, you can hear the wind whip, see the waves crash, and watch the sky light up with flashes of lightning. It’s nature’s theatre at its most powerful.

Top tip: Check tide times and weather forecasts before you head down. A high tide during stormy weather offers the most spectacular view — but always stay safe and respect the sea.

Stargazing on Clear Winter Nights

Once the storms pass, Bude often reveals crystal-clear winter skies. Far from city lights, this part of Cornwall offers excellent stargazing. Wrap up warm, step outside your hut, and look for constellations like Orion’s Belt. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a shooting star — the ultimate romantic moment.

Bring along: A stargazing app to help identify constellations, and an extra blanket to keep cozy while you watch the skies.

From Romance to “Yes!” — Weddings by the Sea

Sometimes a winter evening at the beach becomes even more memorable. If the romance reaches new heights and a proposal happens, we’ve got you covered.

Our very own Hut 2 is a licensed wedding venue, available for beautiful beach weddings all year round, at any time of the day or night. Whether you dream of a simple ceremony by the sea or a magical, intimate winter elopement wedding at midnight, it’s all possible here.

And for those who love spontaneity, we even host last-minute weddings — all you need is 28 days’ notice (for legal reasons). So if your cozy beach hut date turns into a proposal, you could be back in Bude tying the knot before the month is out!

Top tip: Have a look at our Beach Hut wedding packages here.

What to Bring for a Winter Beach Hut Adventure

To make your day (or night) by the sea truly special, don’t forget:

  • A small gas stove for hot drinks and filling your hot water bottle
  • Thick blankets or a sleeping bag for extra warmth
  • Hats, scarves, and gloves
  • A winter picnic
  • A lantern or fairy lights for atmosphere inside the hut
  • A camera to capture those moody skies and crashing waves

Why Visit Bude in Winter?

Bude in winter is a destination full of contrasts — wild seas and cozy shelters, dramatic storms and peaceful starry skies. It’s proof that the beach isn’t just for summer holidays. Whether you’re storm watching, sipping hot drinks in a beach hut, sharing a blanket under the stars, or even saying “yes” to forever” in Hut 2, Bude offers a unique and romantic winter escape.

Plan your visit: Start with booking the perfect place to stay, a beach hut booking, pack your favourite blanket, and let Bude’s winter coast work its magic. Who knows — you might leave with more than just memories.

Please note that Beach Hut Terms & Conditions state beach huts should not be used between 11pm and 5am. However, don’t worry — we are able to grant a special license for extended use in the winter, and this comes at no extra cost – just let us know when you have booked.

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