Things to do in Bude
With a wide range of fun activities, sports and adventure pursuits available, Bude is one of the best places in Cornwall to enjoy your favourite pastime. With so many great facilities and professional coaches nearby, however, it is also a great place to learn something completely new. This is why you’ll also find details for friendly experts and service providers in the area.
Gold Panning Experience
Holsworthy Gold Panning – The only real Gold Panning Experience in the South West!
Join us for an exciting gold panning adventure at our beautiful stream near Holsworthy!
Devon and Cornwall are well known for their rich mineral deposits. This includes GOLD in the hills near Holsworthy!
Here’s how your prospecting adventure will look :-
A short walk down to the panning station next to the stream.
A fun demonstration and equipment distribution.
1 hour of fun gold panning in the stream!
Return equipment to the panning station.
Examine and share your finds with the group.
What might you find?
Fools Gold (Pyrite)
Bits of Quartz sometimes with crystals
Pretty Sandstones with Mica crystals
Maybe if you are lucky – even some real Gold?!?
After your Gold Panning Adventure
Head to our picnic area to relax and wonder about ‘The gold in them hills!’
Could this be the start of your prospecting journey?
Join The Devon Gold Rush and make some Golden Memories!
Fantastic experience
Jul 2023 • Family
This was a fantastic experience and Paul is so knowledgeable and friendly . My 2 boys 7yrs & 15yrs have additional needs and he won them over . As a family we absolutely loved the experience , didn’t feel rushed and was made to feel very welcome . I would highly recommend this experience , it’s worth going just to see the beautiful surroundings/settings . We learnt so much !
Milky Way Adventure Park
If you’re seeking exciting family activities and adventures in North Devon or North Cornwall, The Milky Way Adventure Park is the ultimate destination!
Embark on a thrilling journey aboard the Cosmic Typhoon roller coaster, delight in the gravity-defying excitement of the donut slide, navigate through the maze, and marvel at captivating outdoor displays at the North Devon Bird of Prey Centre.
Pilot a Cyber Scooter and engage in laser battles on Ziggy’s Blast Quest, enjoy laughter-filled moments on the Droid Destroyer Dodgems, bounce around with the whole family on the Jumping Jupiters, and relax on the Milky Way Railway – there’s something for everyone!
Our beloved family-friendly destination is situated in North Devon near Clovelly, nestled between Bideford and Bude, just 5 miles from the North Cornwall border. With a plethora of activities to enjoy, and all rides included in the entrance fee, your Milky Way adventure awaits… Are you ready?
Rainy Days
The Milky Way is your go-to destination for rainy days in North Devon & North Cornwall, boasting over 110,000 sq. ft of indoor activities. This is one of the largest all-weather family day outs in the Southwest, conveniently located on the main A39 between Bideford and Bude. Even when the weather isn’t cooperating, there’s no shortage of indoor fun to be had.
Activities include heart-pounding slides to thrilling indoor dodgems, and from ball pools to soft play areas, we have indoor activities to entertain the entire family when it’s raining. Our Planet Play, North Devon’s largest undercover adventure play area, is designed to engage both adults and children. The little ones will adore Little Stars, the imaginative play area designed for ages 0-6, promoting imaginative and adventurous play. Additionally, pottery painting, laser shooting, and a captivating Sci-Fi exhibit, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy together!
Bude Sea Pool
Bude Sea Pool is a beautiful, part natural, part man-made swimming pool in the rocks at Summerleaze Beach. Created in 1930, the Sea Pool has provided safe bathing at Bude for over 80 years. It is one of the very few tidal swimming pools which still remains open to the general public today and is open throughout the year, free for all to enjoy. The Pool is topped up by the sea at high tide each day.
The Sea Pool is managed by the Friends of Bude Sea Pool, a local volunteer-run charity. FoBSP depend upon donations, grants, sponsorship and membership contributions to fund the Pool’s upkeep.
The Sea Pool is manned by FoBSP staff during the summer season at different times, depending on the tides and weather conditions. When the FoBSP flags are flying, Sea Pool staff are on duty and will be happy to help you.
The FoBSP have taken reasonable care to ensure the Sea Pool is safe for you to enjoy. As it is a natural pool the environment changes with the tide, so please make your own assessment of the Pool before use. The FoBSP request that you enjoy this facility responsibly, and consider the well-being of other users and the surrounding environment. Children must be supervised by an adult and must not be left unattended. Dogs should be kept on a lead and are not permitted to enter the Pool.
There may be groups using the pool such as the RNLI and the Bude Surf Lifesaving Club, and on very rare occasions the Pool may be closed for maintenance or for organised events.
How big is Bude Sea Pool?
- Bude Sea Pool is around 91m long and 45m wide, although because it is a semi-natural structure these are only approximate measurements.
- It holds 4 million litres of sea water.
How deep is Bude Sea Pool?
- The sea washes in twice a day, refreshing the water, and also bringing in sand and stones. It is hard to say exactly the depth in a given area, so please be extra careful when entering, and please don’t dive into the water.
How warm is the water in Bude Sea Pool?
- The water temperature varies from around 11C in April through to 18C in August and September. That can feel quite chilly, so you may want to take your time to acclimatise to the temperature, or wear a wetsuit.
How much does it cost to use?
- Bude Sea Pool is free for all to use. Users are most welcome to contribute where possible by leaving a donation, becoming a Friend or making a purchase from the Shop.
Parsons Pottery
Parsons Pottery stands as a testament to the genuine passion and shared commitment of the husband-and-wife team, John and Rosie. Drawing from a background in production throwing, John has meticulously honed his skills over the years, becoming a master in his craft. Meanwhile, Rosie has embraced the role of painter and glazer, adding her artistic touch to their collaborative endeavours.
In 2020, embarking on a new chapter, John and Rosie relocated to the picturesque north coast of Cornwall, in setting the stage for the evolution of Parsons Pottery. Here, against the backdrop of Quinceborough Farm, at Widemouth Bay, just outside of Bude they established a dedicated workshop, marking the official founding of Parsons Pottery. This move not only signified a change in location but also a significant leap forward for their creative project.
While they persist in sharing and selling their unique creations, a delightful shift has occurred. John and Rosie now find immense joy in connecting with the local community and holidaymakers alike.
Parsons Pottery has become a hub of creativity, hosting a variety of making and painting workshops. These interactive sessions not only showcase the artistry behind their pieces but also provide an opportunity for others to immerse themselves in the craft, creating lasting memories and unique works of art.
Join Parsons Pottery, where the beauty of Cornwall’s north coast meets the artistry of John and Rosie. Whether you’re a local resident or a holidaymaker, their workshops invite you to become a part of the creative process, turning your inspiration into tangible, handcrafted masterpieces.
Pottery Painting:
Start on a creative journey at Parsons Pottery with their pottery painting sessions, designed to cater to individuals, groups, and families alike. You don’t need to be an artist to join in – sessions are crafted for everyone, regardless of artistic experience. Friendly staff are dedicated to ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Select from a diverse range of pottery, including pieces skilfully hand-thrown by John himself. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a first-time creator, full instructions on how to make the most of our vibrant underglaze paints will be given. And fear not, our staff is always on hand, ready to share ideas and techniques, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.
Pottery Throwing:
Begin a pottery adventure with a throwing session, catering to both individuals and groups of 2-6 people. Each session unfolds with a detailed demonstration, paving the way for personalized one-on-one tuition. In group sessions, participants rotate, taking turns on the wheel for an inclusive experience. Individual sessions offer the opportunity to glaze and fire 2 pots, while group sessions involve the firing and glazing of one pot per person. Whether crafting solo or in a group, our pottery throwing sessions promise a blend of education, creativity, and the joy of hands-on artistry.
Surfing with Shoreline Extreme Sports
At Shoreline we use a number of soft-shelled surf boards designed to help you get started and develop a robust technique. Not only are these boards extremely safe but they are also light and easy to carry to and from the shore. Being very buoyant these boards catch the waves easily making sure that you will have plenty of rides on which to get to your feet and polish up your surfing style!
We generally run half day sessions throughout the year providing Instructors, Boards, Wetsuits with Hats and Gloves in the colder months. This is a great individual sport and group activity where you can never predict who will come out as the session’s star, its physical but very rewarding.
Within Bude itself we boast three very different beaches with Crooklets being the most well known as our classic ‘surfing’ beach. Crooklets is home to the towns Surf Life Saving Club the very club that provides the training and Lifeguard qualifications essential to our team of coaches. The Surf at the west facing Crooklets beach breaks along a long sandy shallow sloping beach creating endless peeling and broken waves perfect for learning and practising your surfing techniques.
Bude Canoe Experience
Embark on an award-winning Bude Canoe Experience, a thrilling adventure suitable for all, as you paddle open canoes along the stunning Bude Canal.
No prior experience or special attire is needed.
Discover the essentials of canoe paddling, then set off on a captivating canoe journey to explore, encounter wildlife, and hone various canoeing skills.
The Bude Canal boasts an abundance of wildlife and intriguing history – you’ll learn all about it and gain a fresh and exhilarating perspective as you observe the countryside and waterway.
Expect to witness jumping fish, herons, kingfishers, moorhens, cormorants, warblers, ducks, geese, dragonflies, and, if you’re fortunate, perhaps an otter, water vole, or snake!
No matter your skill level, our expert guide will ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.
All canoe experiences are exclusive, with only your group and a knowledgeable guide. Bring your canine companions along—they’re more than welcome!
Pencarrow House
Pencarrow House and Gardens are tucked away in the heart of Cornwall and has been the cherished family abode of the Molesworth-St Aubyns for nearly five centuries. The family opened its doors to the public in the 1970’s. Since then, they have joyfully welcomed families, history aficionados, nature enthusiasts and beloved dogs and their owners, creating cherished memories for all who visit. This sets it apart as a truly distinctive destination separate from the National Trust.
Hidden amidst the picturesque landscapes bordering Bodmin Moor, this Cornish architectural treasure boasts a plethora of attractions suitable for all. The dog friendly enchanting Grade II listed gardens, which can be explored over the 50-acre estate. An ancient Iron Age fort, a delightful children’s play area, along with a cozy café and a charming gift shop, promise an unforgettable experience. ensuring there’s something special for every member of the family.”
Pencarrow House & Gardens hosts a vibrant array of events throughout the year. From family-friendly gatherings to nostalgic delights, there’s something for everyone. Bluebell Sundays are a highlight, the ever-popular Teddy Bears Picnic, and each year they delight visitors with their festive Christmas Craft Fair.
The Peacock Café, is housed within a stunning vaulted building with abundant outdoor seating. Treat yourself to tantalizing cakes, delectable lunches, and a wide array of teas and coffees, all freshly prepared using the finest locally sourced ingredients from Cornwall. Adjacent to the café is a charming natural children’s play area, complete with a one-of-a-kind Wendy house featuring a slate roof!
Please note, there is no entrance fee for visiting the café alone. Just inform one of the friendly shop staff upon your arrival.
Monster Slip and Slide Bude
Experience the thrill of the Monster Slip And Slide Bude, a 4-lane, 360FT long attraction located in North Cornwall, close to the picturesque town of Bude. Just 4 minutes from the breathtaking beaches of Widemouth Bay, Monster Slip And Slide Bude awaits!
Complimentary super-fast bodyboards and inflatable rings allow you to launch yourself off the Monster ramp and zip down the exhilarating 360ft slide! Plus, children aged 4 and under slide for free!
No need to worry about hunger or thirst! The Monster Munch Team has you covered with a variety of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and tempting ice creams to keep you energized while you Slip and Slide!
Rent the slip and slide exclusively for an epic party! Whether it’s a birthday bash, stag or hen do, kids club event, or corporate/staff party, make it unforgettable with your own private session on the slide.
Customer reviews
“What a fantastic experience for the whole family. We went as a family of five – children age ranges from 3-12. Well organised and plenty of opportunities to go on the slides. What we loved most was the variation from going down the slide, on your own, body board, single ring or double ring which sat four!”
“What a fun way to spend an afternoon! 3 adults and 2 children had a fantastic time from start to finish. Check in was quick and easy, the safety talk was brief but thorough and the amount of time on the slides was just right. We loved the fact you could choose single rings, double rings, body boards or just yourself to go down the slides. We tried everything and enjoyed them all!”
Surfing with OA Surf Club
With three decades of expertise in conducting surf lessons in the Bude area, our seasoned team is perfectly positioned to guide you from novice to champion.
OA Surf Club organises surf lessons at Widemouth Bay, just a stone’s throw from Bude. This expansive sandy beach serves as an idyllic setting for both learning the basics of surfing and honing your existing skills. Whether embarking on this adventure solo, with family, or alongside a group of friends, our amiable and skilled team is not only dedicated but their passion and contagious enthusiasm, ensures you receive nothing short of the finest experience in the water.
Whether you’re a first-time surfer eager to catch your first wave or seeking to refine your technique, our expert coaches specialize in optimizing every moment of your session. Our comprehensive lessons encompass the essentials, from learning how to carry a surfboard to mastering the art of catching waves and adopting various standing techniques.
Our crafted 2-hour lessons strike the perfect balance, combining valuable coaching time on the beach with extensive water sessions. This approach ensures you not only grasp the fundamentals during instruction but also have ample time in the water to hone and practice your newfound skills.
The Big Sheep
At The BIG Sheep Theme Park, you’ll discover entertainment tailored for all ages during your visit to North Devon! Thrilling rides, delightful farm animals, and fantastic dining options guarantee a day filled with family-friendly excitement.
Experience the adrenaline rush of North Devon’s largest and longest rollercoaster, RAMpage. Enjoy entertaining animal performances that will leave you in stitches. Interact with adorable farm animals, including newborn puppies, lambs, piglets, and goats (available April – October). Explore the picturesque safari farm track and meet the charming alpacas, llamas, and more. The Big Sheep promise to create unforgettable memories during your North Devon getaway!
Throughout the year, they host uproarious live shows such as our duck trials and sheep show! Regardless of whether you’re 7 or 70, The BIG Sheep in North Devon has something special for everyone. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available during your visit, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action because their website is always at your fingertips.
Don’t let inclement weather dampen your spirits for a fantastic day out! At The Big Sheep, there’s plenty to keep you entertained rain or shine.
Step into EWEtopia, the indoor playground, where you can revel in hours of fun regardless of the weather outside.
Meet and greet the friendly animals in the cozy confines of the petting barn, catch captivating live shows, and refuel with a delicious meal at either Bo Peep’s Cafe or The Barn Cafe.
For the grown-ups seeking some extra enjoyment, a visit to the Big Sheep brewery is a must! Indulge in tastings and savour the flavours of their craft brews.
Poundstock Gildhouse
Between the 1300s and the mid-1500s, church houses emerged throughout the country, serving as hubs for the more communal aspects of church life. These structures provided a dedicated space for social gatherings, fundraising activities, and leisure pursuits, allowing the church building itself to remain focused on worship and prayer. According to a dendrochronological report, Pounstock Gildhouse is estimated to have been constructed around 1550, marking the culmination of this architectural trend.
Crafted from a blend of cob, stone, and slate, Pounstock Gildhouse originally featured a spacious interior with a prominent fireplace at one end. The lower floor likely accommodated areas for cooking, baking, and brewing, while the upper floor housed a hall reserved for social gatherings. One of the most noteworthy events held in such venues were the church ales – festive occasions characterized by abundant feasting and merrymaking, especially during Whitsuntide and May Day. These gatherings saw the brewing of ales and the preparation of food, all sold to generate funds in support of the church’s endeavours.
The Gildhouse has many roles over the years but it was thanks to a timely bequest and a generous grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, complemented by additional smaller grants and extensive local fundraising efforts, a new restoration project became feasible.
The funding allowed for a splendid Feasting Hall, upstairs a fully functioning kitchen awaits, equipped to cater for a variety of events. Meanwhile, downstairs, a cozy meeting room and a modest yet functional kitchen provides additional space for gatherings. Both levels boast facilities designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity for all.
Throughout the restoration process, meticulously care was taken to preserved old, and possibly original, features, honouring the rich history of the Gildhouse. Notably, tucked away in one corner of the ground floor, you’ll discover a charming relic: a small stable where the schoolmistress once tethered her pony.
To address contemporary transportation needs a much-needed car park located at the top of the cemetery was added to ensure convenient access for all visitors, seamlessly blending tradition with modern requirements.
You can visit Poundstock Gildhouse for free on Wednesdays and they have a active programme of talks and events through out the year.
Trethorne Leisure Park
Experience year-round excitement! Seeking an unforgettable family outing in Cornwall? Look no further than Trethorne! Discover expansive outdoor play zones, adorable rabbits, and guinea pigs to interact with, along with indoor play barns ensuring endless entertainment for kids of all ages. Enjoy a thrilling game of ten-pin bowling and speed around the dodgems track, for an ultimate family escapade.
Indoor Adventure Zone
Don’t let unpredictable weather spoil the fun! Rain or shine, Trethorne’s indoor attractions guarantee a blast for all ages. Brace yourself for thrilling slides, conquer the challenging assault course, or challenge your family to a showdown in the amusements area. Get ready for an unforgettable indoor adventure!
Meet Furry Friends
Step into the Rabbit House and prepare to be charmed by the most adorable, cuddly fluff balls you’ve ever laid eyes on. Your little ones will delight in getting up close with these lovable creatures, there are three sessions a day where they can enjoy quality snuggle time with the rabbits. It’s a wonderful opportunity for kids to gain hands-on experience with some of Threthorne’s most beloved residents.
Bowling Excitement at Trethorne
Ready to unleash your competitive spirit? Gather your family or friends for a thrilling game at the ten-pin bowling alley, perfect for an afternoon or evening of entertainment, rain or shine. With ramps and side rails available, it’s suitable for bowlers of all skill levels. After a round of strikes and spares, refuel with mouthwatering dishes from the café and restaurant. And once you’ve conquered the pins, keep the excitement going with more adventures at our leisure park or on the dodgems track!
Race to Victory on the Dodgems
Ready to unleash your competitive side? Climb into one of 15 dodgem cars and speed your way around the track, testing your skills as you swerve and dodge your fellow riders. Open during the afternoon and evening, our exhilarating dodgem track provides the perfect finale to your family day out or a thrilling appetizer before enjoying a delicious dinner in the restaurant.
Food
On site restaurant and café proudly presents family favourites crafted from the finest Cornish produce. Start your day at the park with a delicious breakfast, recharge with a wholesome lunch, or grab dinner before heading home. On sun-kissed days, enjoy your meal al fresco in the picnic area. Bring your own treats or indulge in something tasty from the takeaway. Looking for a unique venue for a special celebration? The restaurant at Trethorne is also available for private hire or large parties.
Accessibility
At Trethorne Leisure, inclusivity is a priority. The entire site and attractions are situated at ground level, ensuring easy access for all visitors. Trethorne have implemented level access for wheelchairs across the leisure park, guaranteeing a seamless experience for everyone. There are 3 accessible toilets, all have ample space for wheelchair access and additional support should it be needed.
Wheelchair Access
Trethorne Leisure Park boasts a flat, level layout, providing excellent accessibility for wheelchair users. The restaurant and indoor attractions, including play barns, bowling alley, dodgems, and games room, are all conveniently located on a single level, welcoming guests of all abilities. Accessible parking spaces ensure effortless entry into the leisure park and its facilities. Additionally, where steps are present, alternative ramp options are readily available.