Visit Bude | Holidays in Cornwall

The Canal Barge Workshop
2027-08-01 14:00, 2027-07-25 14:00 (Europe/London) | Canal Barge Workshop, Helebridge, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 0JA, United Kingdom
Located at the end of a picturesque walk along the tow path from Bude, you’ll discover the hidden treasure of the Canal Barge Workshop. Tucked away just two miles south of Bude in the serene Helebridge, this enchanting site was built in 1840 for the Canal Company. Today, it proudly showcases the extraordinary Bude Canal Tub Boat and other heritage artifacts, including late 19th century items from the Gregory Engineering Workshop in Bude.
As you reach the end of your leisurely stroll along the tow path, the Canal Barge Workshop awaits, offering a fascinating glimpse into its rich history and unique charm. The idyllic surroundings make it a perfect place to stop and enjoy a picnic.
Managed by volunteers from the Bude Canal and Harbour Society, the Barge Workshop warmly welcomes visitors every Sunday afternoon in July, August and September, between 2pm and 5pm.
Admission to this attraction is free. Location EX23 0JA – 2 miles south of Bude.

Summer Holidays: Brick Explorers
2027-08-01 10:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-31 10:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-30 10:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-29 10:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-28 10:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-27 10:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-26 10:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-25 10:00 - 16:00 and 1 more date | RHS Garden Rosemoor, Great Torrington, EX38 8PH
This summer holidays, families are invited to explore the spectacular Royal Horticultural Society gardens near Great Torrington (one of only five in the country) in an immersive wildlife trail featuring intricately hand-crafted brick creations and hands-on building activities, in collaboration with Iconic Bricks.
Visitors can follow a family trail to discover ten ‘wildlife superheroes’, learning about the unique abilities and behaviours that help different species survive and thrive. Using an activity booklet, there is the chance to collect superhero ‘superpowers’ and match the stickers whilst exploring the gardens, discovering how plants, fungi, and animals are connected within natural ecosystems.
Guests are encouraged to take close note of their surroundings as the displays appear in varied sizes and at different levels, from up above to nestled among flower beds and positioned within naturalistic settings. The ten sculptures include a wildflower wall, a life-size Greater Spotted Woodpecker, a giant bee and beetle, a big hedgehog and a large otter. The trail is suitable for all ages, although children must be accompanied by an adult, and will be available to follow daily throughout the summer holidays.
Families can also enjoy additional creative LEGO® workshops lead by Stemgineering with Nick where they can design and build nature themed creations, from bug hotels and bee friendly gardens to pollinator pathways, garden creatures and much more (selected days only).
Plus, you can get involved in the dedicated community brick building station and help transform a grey city into a greener, more wildlife-friendly space by adding your own nature-inspired brick inventions.
To celebrate the launch of the trail RHS Rosemoor is holding a special Big Brick Weekend on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July when you can join a guided tour to learn how the spectacular brick wildlife sculptures were designed and built and build your own miniature wildlife model to take home.
Meet the expert from Iconic Bricks on a guided walk and talk along the Brick Explorer Trail to discover the inspiration, design process and fascinating details behind the incredible brick-built creations hidden throughout the gardens. Available during launch weekend only, these special sessions offer a unique opportunity to hear directly from the experts who brought the trail to life.
Visitors on the launch weekend can also take part in ‘Make and Take’ workshops where they can collect their building materials and follow step-by-step instructions to create their very own miniature wildlife model of a robin or a bluetit to take home.
(Well behaved dogs on short fixed leads are welcome every Monday Tuesday and Wednesday).
Full details are available online – garden admission applies but families can save thanks to Great British Summer Savings VAT reductions and advance booking discounts.

Crooklets Beach Clean
2027-08-01 10:00 - 11:30 | Crooklets Beach, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 8NE, United Kingdom
Join local legend Deb Rosser and her friendly team who meet on the first Saturday of each month to clean Crooklets Beach.
All equipment is provided, so meet her outside the Bude Surf Lifesaving Club building just before 10am.
Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult.

Open Mic Night at The Preston Gate Inn
2027-07-31 18:00 - 23:00 | Preston Gate, Poughill, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 9ET, United Kingdom
Embrace the spotlight and showcase your talents at the Preston Gate Inn’s open mic night! Every Saturday, the stage comes alive with the sounds of local musicians, poets, comedians, and performers of all stripes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or stepping onto the stage for the first time, our welcoming atmosphere provides the perfect platform to share your creativity with an enthusiastic audience. So, grab your instrument, polish your poetry, or fine-tune your jokes, and join us at the Preston Gate Inn for a night of unforgettable performances, delightful surprises, and endless applause!

Pottery Painting and Throwing Sessions
2027-07-31 14:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-30 14:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-29 14:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-27 14:00 - 16:00, 2027-07-24 14:00 - 16:00 | Parsons Pottery, Unit 1 Quinceborough Farm, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 0NA, United Kingdom
Pottery Painting Workshops – full instruction and wide range of domestic ware and figurines to choose from – suitable for individuals, friend and family groups from age 3 to adult, under 3’s can do hand/foot prints with adult.
Painting sessions are for up to 2 hours – up to 10 places per session can be book on our website. Session fee £5 payable on booking. Pay for what you paint at the Pottery by Cash or Card

Tuesdays 2pm
Thursdays 2pm and 7pm
Fridays 10 am
Saturdays 10 am

Throwing on the potters wheel – individual lessons, group throwing taster sessions for 2 – 6 people. All sessions are taught 1 to 1. For Adults and Children from age 6

Tuesdays 2pm
Thursdays 2pm and 7pm
Fridays 1.30pm
Saturdays 10am

Throwing takes about 1 1/2 to 2 hours depending on size of group. Up to 4 places per session can be booked on our website. To book larger groups please email as we need to arrange for additional instructors. Individual £50 Groups from £60 payable on booking.
We advise early booking for Saturdays and School Holidays to avoid disappointment. Children must be accompanies by a participating adult or up to 1 non participating adult per group.

Live Music at The Preston Gate Inn
2027-07-30 21:00 - 23:00, 2027-07-23 21:00 - 23:00 | Preston Gate, Poughill, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 9ET, United Kingdom
Live music every Friday at the Preston Gate Inn. From soulful acoustic sets to foot-stomping rock and roll, our lineup features talented local artists who deliver captivating performances that cater to every musical taste. Whether you’re unwinding after a long week or kicking off the weekend in style, our cozy venue provides the perfect setting to enjoy great music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks with friends and family. So, join us at the Preston Gate Inn and let the melodies sweep you away as you dance the night away or simply sit back and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. With our commitment to delivering top-notch entertainment, Friday nights are always a reason to celebrate at the Preston Gate Inn!

The Barrel Tappers
2027-07-30 19:00 - 21:00, 2027-07-23 19:00 - 21:00 | The Barrel at Bude, 36 Lansdown Road, BUde, EX23 9BN, United Kingdom
Celtic Folk Music from The Barrel’s in- house band.

Friday Live Music at The Barrel
2027-07-30 17:00 - 21:00 | The Barrel at Bude, 36 Lansdown Road, BUde, EX23 9BN, United Kingdom
Live music at The Barrel is an integral part of the town’s nightlife scene. Located in the heart of Bude, The Barrel is a popular micropub and music venue known for its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and eclectic line-up of live performances.
The Barrel, 36 Lansdown Road, Bude, Cornwall. Added: Throughout the year, The Barrel hosts an array of talented musicians, bands, and performers spanning various genres including rock, folk, blues, jazz, and more.
The venue itself exudes character, with its cosy interior, rustic decor, and welcoming ambiance providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night of live music.
The pub’s lively atmosphere, coupled with its commitment to serving only local drinks and delivering top-notch live entertainment, makes it a favourite spot among locals and visitors alike.

Quiz Night at The Preston Gate Inn
2027-07-28 21:00 - 22:30 | Preston Gate, Poughill, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 9ET, United Kingdom
Join the lively atmosphere at the Preston Gate Inn and enjoy their famed quiz night! Whether you’re a seasoned quiz enthusiast or a newcomer, come join us at the Preston Gate Inn for an evening filled with laughter, fun, and the thrill of the challenge!

Poundstock Gildhouse Open Day
2027-07-28 10:00 - 16:00 | Poundstock Gildhouse, Poundstock, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 0AX
Visit the historic Poundstock Gildhouse, a beautifully restored Tudor Church House near Bude. Restored in 2007, the Gildhouse now serves as an amenity for the local community and visitors alike.
Open to the public on Wednesdays, it’s a wonderful opportunity to explore one of the area’s fascinating heritage buildings and learn more about its history.
Free tea and biscuits available.
A warm welcome awaits.

Watercolour Workshops
2027-07-27 14:00 - 17:00 | Parkhouse Centre, Ergue-Gaberic Way, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 8LD, United Kingdom
Every Tuesday afternoon from 2:00 to 5:00 pm, Harry hosts a watercolour workshop at the Parkhouse Centre. This welcoming gathering is open to all ages and skill levels, catering to beginners and seasoned painters alike.
The afternoon commences with a demonstration by Harry, providing valuable insights and techniques for participants to explore. Following the demonstration, attendees are encouraged to embark on their own artistic journey, receiving guidance and support from Harry along the way. This isn’t a rigid course—it’s a relaxed and informal gathering where creativity flourishes.
Amidst the creative process, there’s time for a delightful coffee break, fostering camaraderie and lively conversation among fellow artists. And, if you’re lucky, there might even be some delicious cake to enjoy!
The workshop welcomes families during holiday periods, offering a unique opportunity for intergenerational creativity. With seascapes being a popular theme by demand, participants have the chance to capture the beauty of Bude’s coastal scenery on canvas.
By the end of the session, most attendees depart with a finished painting they can be proud of—a tangible representation of their artistic journey.
Spaces for the workshop are limited, so be sure to contact The Gallery to reserve your spot and unleash your creativity in this nurturing and inspiring environment.
£20 includes all equipment.

Big Nature Hike
2027-07-27 10:00 - 12:00 | The 2 Minute Foundation HQ, Crooklets Road, Bude, EX23 8HN, United Kingdom
Part of our 2 Minute Beach School Summer programme, the Big Nature Hike is for anyone aged 11-18 with good walking ability in any weather!
If you’re up for adventure, come and join us each week as we explore the coastline together. Every session, we’ll focus on a different species, learning about it and trying to spot it out in the wild.
We’ll be covering quite a bit of ground, so be ready for a good walk! Make sure you come dressed for the weather and bring your energy – you’ll need
Booking required – follow the weblink to book or contact liam@2minute.org

RNLI Free Swim Safe Water Safety Lessons
2027-07-26 12:30 - 13:30, 2027-07-26 11:30 - 12:30 | Bude Sea Pool, Summerleaze Beach, Bude, EX23 8HJ
Swim safe teaches children basic swimming, safe water skills and how to stay safe in and around water to prevent drowning. Free to attend, priceless life skills.

Gildhouse Arms Pop Up Pub
2027-07-23 19:30 - 22:30 | Poundstock Gildhouse, Poundstock, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 0AX
On the 4th Friday of each month starting on 23rd May at 7.30, the Gildhouse Arms will be open.
Relax in a fun atmosphere where you can catch up with friends and enjoy a drink, in this beautiful historic building.
23rd May music will be provide by Ben Banford
