Dog Friendly
We are fortunate that many of the attractions local to Bude welcome dogs and you will be surprised at how many places to visit are happy to accommodate your pet. In addition to enjoying the natural beauty, walks and scenery with your pet you can rest easy in the knowledge that having your pooch with you will not prevent you from enjoying some of the best visitor attractions in Cornwall and Devon.
Pencarrow House
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.
Clovelly
Clovelly
Clovelly is a unique village once owned by the Queen of England and from Elizabethan days until today, it has been in private ownership, which has helped preserve its original atmosphere. Clinging to a 400 foot cliff in North Devon, it has no vehicular traffic on its steeply cobbled street, just donkeys and sledges. The man-powered sledges transport all goods to the village, from groceries to furniture. Donkeys used to be the main form of transport for centuries, but now mainly give children rides during the summer or can be seen posing for photographs in the street.
There is much to see and do, and the village hosts a variety of events throughout the year. As well as live music, demonstrations, street entertainments, stalls galore and craft activities, you can also find out more about seaweed at the ‘Know Your Seaweed’ Talks and experience the Shipwreck Survival Workshop.
Keypitts Off Road Adventures
Keypitts Off Road Adventures
Keypitts adventure centre in Ilfracombe, North Devon, specialize in thrilling activities such as Quad Biking, Axe Throwing, Mini Land Rovers, and the 4×4 Land Rover Experience.
With over two decades of experience, Keypitts off-road centre has been providing exciting activities for enthusiasts of all ages.
Established on a Family Run Farm in 1998 who diversified to offer a range of activities that their own family enjoyed. This endeavour has blossomed into a successful business, providing a safe and exhilarating all-terrain experience for everyone.
Keypitts activities cater to all ages and abilities, inviting you to push your limits on the farm’s expansive 200 acres of captivating and scenic terrain. As an all-weather attraction, who remain open throughout the year—rain or shine. In fact, the wetter it gets, the better the experience!
Quad Bikes
Choose from an extensive range of quads suitable for ages 6 and above, featuring 50cc to 450cc Yamaha’s, Honda’s, Adly’s, and Cf Moto’s. Whether you’re a small kid or a big kid at heart, they have the perfect bikes for everyone.
• The Badger Run for 6-7 year olds
• The Novice Ride 8 years and over
• The Skill Ride 10 years and over (The most popular ride)
• The Superskill Ride 12 years and over. Riders under 16 must have been before and have completed The Skill Course
Off Road 4 x 4 Land Rover Experience
Experience the thrill of off-road exploration with a 4×4 Land Rover Adventure. Keypitts invites you to master the art of off-road driving in the Land Rover Discovery, the ultimate vehicle for the job. Embark on a 30–45-minute journey across an expansive 200 acres of challenging terrain.
The course starts with moderate difficulty and gradually intensifies as you progress. Fear not, experienced off-road driving instructors are there every step of the way, ready to assist. If you find any part too challenging or feel uncomfortable, the instructor can take control – though this is a rare occurrence. Gain valuable off-road driving skills and a deeper understanding of navigating challenging landscapes, all while enjoying a unique day out in North Devon.
Please note that participants must possess a full driving license to operate the vehicle, and you can bring up to 3 passengers along. If no one in your group has a driving license, you can still enjoy the adventure with up to 4 passengers on a guided 4×4 ride, expertly driven by one of our skilled instructors.
Mini Land Rover Experience
The Mini Land Rover Experience at Keypitts is designed specifically for the little adventurers aged 3 to 10! Imagine the joy on your children’s faces as they take the wheel and navigate our purpose-built track.
Rest assured, parents, we’ve got your peace of mind covered. While your little ones are in control, you’ll have a remote control at your fingertips to intervene if they encounter any challenges. Each vehicle can accommodate up to 2 children, ensuring a delightful and safe driving experience for your little explorers.
Axe Throwing
Have you ever experienced the thrill of axe throwing? If not, now is the perfect time to give it a shot at Keypitts! This unique and exciting activity will put your aim to the test, adding a distinctive flair to your day out in North Devon.
Even if you’re already skilled at axe throwing, this is an excellent opportunity to further refine your abilities. Showcase your talent and compete with others using our points system, injecting an extra layer of fun and friendly competition into the experience.
We provide professional throwing axes, along with Tomahawks or Mousehawks for our younger participants. With three targets marked with varying points and increasing difficulty, you’ll quickly discover the nuanced technique behind successfully throwing an axe!
St Nectan’s Glen
St Nectan’s Glen
Bridge Bike Hire
Bridge Bike Hire
Welcome to Bridge Bike Hire, established in 1983!
At Bridge Bike Hire, we extend a warm and friendly welcome to everyone, whether young, old, or four-legged! As the original cycle hire on the Camel Trail, we are conveniently located right at the beginning of the trail in Wadebridge. Our courtyard seamlessly connects to the Camel Trail, providing you with traffic-free access for your cycling adventure and avoiding the hustle and bustle of the busy road.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, and we offer optional reduced-rate hire starting from 2 pm during the Easter season. Additionally, there are some reduced rates available all day for everyone during the winter months. Join us at Bridge Bike Hire for a memorable cycling experience on the beautiful Camel Trail!
Our Bikes – 40 Years of Excellence
With nearly four decades of operation, Bridge Bike Hire is dedicated to providing an exceptional cycling experience on the Camel Trail. Each year, we meticulously source the most comfortable seats, the safest children’s trailers, and top-quality bikes. Our ongoing investment in equipment ensures that the trail is accessible to individuals of all abilities.
Our knowledgeable team is delighted to guide you in selecting the most suitable bike, catering to riders of all ages, including our four-legged friends! Every group receives a lock, a puncture repair kit, and our team is always ready to offer any assistance or advice you may need. Join us for a cycling adventure where comfort, safety, and enjoyment are our top priorities!
Bikes Available
Securing your bikes for your Camel Trail adventure is highly recommended, especially during school holidays. Child trailers, trailer bikes, tandems, dog trailers, and other specialized bikes are particularly popular and tend to get booked quickly. We have electric bikes, hybrids, mountation bikes and retro ladies bikes something for everyone.
Explore our “GO OUT LATE, STAY OUT LATE” option during the warmer months—a delightful alternative to a morning ride that lets you make the most of your day.
Doggies Come Too!
We believe in inclusivity at Bridge Bike Hire, and that includes your furry friends! Dogs are more than welcome to join the adventure on the Camel Trail with our specially adapted dog trailers. Equipped with a bottle of water and a dog bowl, dogs of all ages can now enjoy a day out with the whole family.
While dogs are permitted on the Camel Trail, it’s essential to adhere to the ‘Rules of the Camel Trail’ set by Cornwall Council, who manages the trail. According to these rules, dogs should be kept on leads at all times. We look forward to welcoming your canine companions for a delightful day on the Camel Trail!
Summerleaze Pirate Ship
Summerleaze Pirate Ship
Recently reconstructed, the wooden Pirate Ship moored behind the beach huts at Summerleaze Beach presents an imaginative playground for children of all ages.
Complete with intricate details like a realistic crow’s nest and stunning views overlooking the sea, this play area sets the stage for epic pirate adventures! It’s the ideal spot for swashbuckling pirate parties, where young buccaneers can let their imaginations run wild amidst the sea breeze and crashing waves.
Canoe Canal Adventures with Shoreline Extreme Sports
Canoe Canal Adventures with Shoreline Extreme Sports
Canoeing, or Canadian Canoeing, allows a group of people (typically two, but can accommodate up to four) to paddle a large open-cockpit canoe. One key distinction between an open canoe and a kayak is the type of paddle used; canoes utilize single-bladed paddles, whereas kayaks use double-ended paddles.
Shoreline’s canoeing courses primarily take place on the historic rural Bude Canal, which meanders up the Neat Valley for nearly two miles. This canal offers an ideal setting to teach canoeing techniques in a safe and sheltered environment.
For the Canal Canoe Adventure, you’ll be equip you with a canoe and provide initial instruction on paddling and maneuvering techniques. After some practice time, you’ll get a brief and you’ll be provided a challenge map before allowing you to venture off on your own to explore the canal and discover the answers to the challenge’s questions. It’s a fantastic experience for groups or families, ensuring everyone stays engaged and entertained, including your furry friends!
Bodmin Keep
Bodmin Keep
Bodmin’s iconic Keep stands as a testament to Cornwall’s military history, boasting over 160 years of heritage as the former regimental headquarters. Today, it has transformed into a captivating museum, chronicling 300 years of military presence in Cornwall.
Step inside to discover a treasure trove of artifacts, from badges and weapons to regimental colours, each offering a glimpse into the storied past of Cornwall’s military legacy. Delve into the lives of ordinary soldiers who lived through extraordinary times, as their stories unfold through immersive exhibits and displays.
A visit to Bodmin Keep is an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Cornwall’s military heritage, offering insight into the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served.
The museum boasts an extensive collection of over 12,000 items, the majority of which are proudly showcased for visitors to explore. Each artifact weaves a compelling narrative of battle and honours the courage and sacrifice of individual soldiers.
Among the treasures are numerous works of art that vividly depict tales of conflict, complemented by a remarkable display of over 80 uniforms spanning from Napoleonic times to the modern era. Visitors can also marvel at hundreds of medals bestowed upon brave individuals for their wartime heroism throughout history.
In addition to these remarkable artifacts, the collection includes a diverse array of sculptures, decorative art, and other fascinating memorabilia, offering a comprehensive journey through Cornwall’s military heritage. Immerse yourself in the stories of valour and resilience encapsulated within our museum’s unparalleled collection.
Dogs
Bodmin Keep welcomes furry friends to the museum as they are a dog-friendly attraction. Well-behaved dogs on a lead are warmly invited to accompany their owners during their visit. However, please note that entry for dogs is subject to discretion, particularly during busy periods. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both human and canine visitors, it’s recommend booking ahead.
Accessibility
The museum is spread across two floors, each accessed via a flight of stairs, unfortunately, wheelchair access is not available at this time. However, Bodmin Keep strive to ensure that all visitors can enjoy our exhibits comfortably. They provide seating in every gallery and stalls to stand on, allowing everyone to view items displayed in cabinets raised off the ground. The aim is to make your visit as inclusive and enjoyable as possible.
The Castle Bude
The Castle Bude
Grade II listed and steeped in history, The Castle Bude, owned and operated by Bude-Stratton Town Council, offers a wealth of attractions to explore for free, rain or shine. Open daily from 10 am, The Castle features The Heritage Centre, Café Limelight, two galleries, and a gift shop. Immerse yourself in Bude’s rich history, enjoy the ever-changing exhibition programme, and unwind with friends over drinks, light lunches, or delectable cakes.
The spacious, dog-friendly decking area is open year-round and dry clean dogs on short leads are welcome inside. On Mondays a dog free day is observed inside and the Willoughby Gallery is a dog free zone at all times. Plus, The Castle Bude is a licensed wedding and civil ceremony venue. The Heritage Centre is your gateway to discovering Bude and its surroundings, including the world-renowned geology and the town’s pivotal role in the English Civil War.
Docton Mill Gardens and Tea Rooms
Docton Mill Gardens and Tea Rooms
Welcome to Docton Mill Tea Rooms & Gardens, a hidden gem in the heart of Hartland, North Devon.
Discover the captivating story of Docton Mill Wild Flower Gardens, nestled in a stunning valley just 1000m from the coast. Originating in the 1930s, the garden faced a period of neglect in the 1970s. The resurgence in 1980 brought about the renovation of the Mill, extensive planting, and the creation of a new Bog Garden and borders, accompanied by the planting of numerous trees. The new millennium ushered in further developments, including the Magnolia Garden, expansive Herbaceous borders, Woodland Garden, and a Greenhouse area for extensive plant propagation.
Our Wild Flower Gardens follow a theme of natural simplicity. In spring, witness displays of narcissi, primulas, camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas, all framed by the enchanting presence of bluebells. Summer brings a profusion of roses, including a rose bank of Felicia and Pax, alongside the Herbaceous border. Explore a field boasting 25 varieties of magnolia, ensuring a garden that captivates throughout the seasons.
Garden Entry:
- Adults: £6.50
- Children (U18): Free (Under 2.3m in height)
Awards and Accolades:
- Voted Best Tea Room in North Devon (North Devon Food & Drink Awards)
- Gold Medal Winner at Devon County Show
- Voted Best Cream Tea in Devon (North Devon Food & Drink Awards)
Garden Features:
- Spectacular narcissi display in spring
- Enchanting river walk with naturalised narcissi, bluebells, and wild garlic
- Superb bog garden, celebrated in Rosemary Verey’s “Good Planting”
- Extensive 140m herbaceous border
- Wildflower gardens
Tea Room Delights:
- Award-winning tea room serving light lunches with specialty salads
- Locally sourced ingredients
- No entry charge to use the Tea Room
- Last teas served at 4:30 pm
Pet-Friendly Atmosphere:
- Dogs allowed on short leads
Additional Offerings:
- Plant sales area
- RHS Partnership Garden every Saturday throughout the season
Disabled Facilities:
- Due to the topographical layout, the garden is not suitable for wheelchairs or those with serious walking disabilities. For further details, please call 01237 441369.
RHS Garden Rosemoor
RHS Garden Rosemoor
A garden full of inspiration
Set in a beautiful valley in the heart of North Devon between two National Parks, RHS Rosemoor is a 65 acre haven for biodiversity and wildlife has something for everyone.
A feast for the senses
Explore their famous ‘garden rooms’, each themed to celebrate the seasons in different planting styles and designs, where the plants are always the star.
Luxuriate in the scent of over 250 rose varieties in two dedicated gardens, at their fragrant peak in June.
Experience a blaze of reds, oranges and yellows in the Hot Garden with swathes of vibrant plants or unwind in the soothing pastels and blues of the Cool Garden, a tranquil oasis with a teardrop-shaped pond.
Discover trees from every continent of the Northern Hemisphere, see their Devon orchard with rare heritage apple trees or be inspired by the range of delectable edibles grown in the Fruit and Vegetable Garden.
Families can let their imaginations run wild exploring woodland walks – try your hand at den making or follow the leaf rubbing trail!
A hive of activity
The garden comes alive with craft fairs, workshops, live music and more throughout the year, with something to do every school holiday. Join a creative class, improve your gardening knowledge at one of the regular courses or just sit back and be entertained! Relish the delights of the Festival of Flavours, get nostalgic at the Vintage weekend or just get festive at the annual Glow illuminations.
Savour local flavours
Taste produce from Rosemoor’s own garden and enjoy locally-sourced delicacies carefully prepared on site in a range of meal and snack options, or treat yourself to a delicious cream tea with garden views.
Green shopping
They have plants for any space: big, small or indoors and offer a 5-year guarantee on hardy plants. Local artisan produce and crafts, horticultural and lifestyle books, gifts and sustainable homeware also available.
Cornwall at War Museum
Cornwall at War Museum
This is not your usual type of museum and it certainly isn’t a large grey building with all the exhibits neatly arranged on shelf after shelf in glass cabinets – ask any of our visitors!
There is a do-it-yourself NAAFI on-site for hot and cold drinks, crisps etc with comfortable seating and WW2 newspapers to read.
Well-behaved dogs (on a lead) are welcome.
Airfield Tours on Thursday afternoons at 2 pm (July to the end of September ONLY) Tours take place at 2pm every Thursday. They are in our crew bus Marlene – Booking essential.