Family friendly

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.

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.

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!

Scott, the Head Surf Coach, at Bude Surfing Experience whose extensive experience in the industry leads our team of highly-qualified instructors. Each member of our coaching team is carefully selected to align with our core values of ensuring both fun and safety at all times. We take pride in our commitment to excellence, with every instructor holding DBS checks, Safeguarding training, and certifications in Lifeguarding and Surf Coaching. Rest assured, we are fully insured and endorsed by Surfing England.

Whether you’re a complete beginner, an intermediate surfer, or someone seeking a few expert tips, we are dedicated to helping you progress swiftly and safely on one of Cornwall’s finest surfing destinations. Summerleaze Beach, one of our chosen locations, is not only dog-friendly but also perfect for families, featuring the unique Bude Sea Pool.

DAILY GROUP SESSIONS
Embark on our daily 2.5-hour group sessions tailored for all ages and abilities, maintaining a minimum ratio of 1 instructor to 8 learners. The session cost includes all necessary equipment. Families with children under 8 are welcome, but we kindly ask for a non-surfing adult to accompany them—please arrange this at the time of booking.

PRIVATE / BESPOKE SESSIONS
Unlock a personalized surfing experience by booking a private lesson, where your dedicated surf instructor focuses exclusively on you and/or your family. Ideal for families with small children eager to surf together, as well as individuals and couples seeking accelerated progress.

PEAK SEASON (July and August): Exclusive sunrise and sunset sessions only.

OFF-PEAK: Enjoy the flexibility of choosing your preferred timing.

We cater to diverse private group bookings, including stag and hen parties, corporate and team-building events, school, scout, and university groups, as well as birthday parties (for all ages over 8). Everyone is welcome for surf, SUP, and bodyboard sessions.

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.

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.

Big Blue Surf School boasts a rich history of teaching surfing for over two decades. Whether you’re a novice eager to learn or seeking a fantastic family adventure, Big Blue can help you achieve it. With a track record of safely introducing over 35,000 individuals, including men, women, and children, to the exhilarating world of surfing, we welcome returning enthusiasts year after year. Our surfing lessons cater to individuals, families, schools, as well as those with disabilities or neurodiverse individuals.

Operating on Summerleaze Beach, one of Cornwall’s most diverse surf spots, we have access to a sheltered bay for challenging conditions and an open sandy beach during mid to low tide, accommodating surfers of all skill levels. If big waves aren’t your preference, worry not!

Our coaches, fully qualified for all skill levels, are trained surf lifeguards, many of whom honed their surfing skills in Bude, providing them with extensive local expertise. Emphasizing safety as our top priority, we maintain a high coach-to-student ratio.

At Big Blue, we believe in inclusivity, running specialized adaptive lessons for individuals with disabilities, neurodiverse conditions, and mental health challenges.

Ensuring surfing is accessible to everyone is our mission!

Our expertise extends to working with both children and adults facing various conditions and disabilities. These include, but are not limited to, autism, Down’s syndrome, physical disabilities, as well as challenges related to speech, sight, and hearing.

Tailoring our approach to individual needs and abilities, we provide a spectrum of options, ranging from introductory ‘learn to surf’ sessions to tandem wave riding.
For tandem experiences, we offer specialized boards with an instructor, while our collection of extra-wide surfboards facilitates solo riding, ensuring added stability for an effortlessly enjoyable experience.

Each lesson is conducted one-on-one with an instructor, prioritizing safety in the water. Additionally, we provide buoyancy aids as necessary to enhance the overall safety and enjoyment of the experience.

Operating year-round, we offer extra-thick wetsuits to keep you warm during cooler months.

Unwind Your Mind – Energize Your Body – Boost Your Mood.

Paddleboarding, or SUP, offers an attainable and serene alternative to surfing, rapidly becoming one of the most popular water sports globally. Join Bude Surfing Experience to grasp the fundamentals of SUP on Bude Canal, surrounded by nature in an ideal setting for all weather conditions. Explore the picturesque canal, either through a guided lesson or independently with our premium SUP rental equipment. Suitable for all ages and confidence levels, this provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the water.

We assure you that your sessions will be filled with smiles and laughter throughout! Our team of highly experienced instructors is dedicated to ensuring the entire session is safe, enjoyable, and packed with valuable information.

Experience the freedom to explore Bude Canal at your own pace by renting our paddleboards, paddles, and buoyancy aids. You can find our trailer conveniently located by Bude Canal and at the Bude Tourist Information Centre. To ensure availability, especially during peak times, we recommend booking online in advance or giving us a call. Whether you choose an hour or two, renting a paddleboard provides the independence to immerse yourself in nature on the canal.

Our equipment hire service operates daily from 9 am to 5 pm, offering you the flexibility to enjoy your paddleboarding adventure at a time that suits you best.

About Saltwater Safari:

For those familiar with Pete “Smudge” Smith, it’s no secret that he boasts over two decades of experience as a coach in the adventure sports industry. Holding qualifications as a climbing coach, International Mountain Leader, and a certified teacher, Pete’s expertise lies in extracting the best from individuals in challenging environments.

With a wealth of experience, Pete is a Level 2 Surf Coach and Adaptive Surf Coach accredited by the ISA (International Surf Association). Additionally, he is a Level 3 Beginner Surf SUP instructor certified by the ASI (Academy of Surf Instructors). His aim is to impart a deep understanding of the sea, enriching your surfing experience.

Ethos:

Aligned with our commitment to delivering Saltwater Safari adventures tailored exclusively for you, we conduct surf sessions for individuals or small private groups. This ensures a personalized experience shared only with your friends and/or family.

Every session we conduct is unique, tailored to your needs and aspirations, promoting a different and progressive experience each time, regardless of your skill level.

Our sessions allow you to forge shared memories with your family and friends. These experiences will linger in your thoughts, becoming cherished moments that you’ll reminisce about long after your holiday has concluded!

Our focus is on you acquiring new skills and valuable knowledge about the sea, and hopefully, about yourself.

Location:

Saltwater Safari proudly holds a license from Cornwall Council to conduct water-based activities on Crooklets and Summerleaze beaches in the beautiful town of Bude.

We’ll meet you at the Saltwater Safari trailer in the Crooklets car park. Here, we’ll ensure you’re well-equipped for an exciting surf session.

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!
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​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.

Experience Bodmin Jail Where History Comes Alive
Embark on an immersive journey through history with The Bodmin Jail Experience. With a £8.5 million investment, the introduction of the captivating ‘Dark Walk’ experience, elevating your visit to new heights. Included in standard jail entry tickets or join a heritage guided tour, explore the rich tapestry of stories woven within these historic walls.

Originally built in 1779 for King George III, Bodmin Jail holds a significant place in Cornwall’s past. The bold redevelopment invites you to uncover its intriguing hidden history, offering a glimpse into the heart of Cornwall’s heritage. Representing a substantial investment in Cornwall’s tourism, the state-of-the-art technology ensures a truly immersive experience, making it the premier attraction.

The Dark Walk:
Immerse Yourself in History and Discover the Secrets of Cornwall’s Past
Set out on an unforgettable journey through Cornwall’s history with the groundbreaking ‘Dark Walk’. A pioneering attraction in Cornwall, it combines theatrical effects and cutting-edge technology to transport visitors back to the region’s enigmatic past. Experience firsthand the harsh realities of life in an 18th and 19th-century prison on the rugged edges of Bodmin Moor.

Reimagined for modern audiences, this haunting cinematic experience brings to life stories of smuggling, mining, and the daily struggles endured by Cornwall’s most vulnerable. Hear tales of infamous prisoners and delve into the untold stories of the past.

The Naval Wing:
A Glimpse into Grimy Cells, Harsh Punishments and  Gruelling Conditions
Venture into the original Naval Wing of the jail, where visitors brave a chilly journey into the stark reality of life behind bars. Experience firsthand the dreariness of days and nights within the confines of grimy cells, witness the severity of prison punishments, and unravel the tales of child criminals as you explore these formidable structures.

The Administration Block:
Continue your journey to the Administration Block and the Governor’s Office, where visitors can uncover the captivating history of the individuals who operated, toiled, and resided within Bodmin Jail. Delve into hidden stories and myths of Cornwall, Bodmin, and this historic penitentiary from an operational standpoint, gaining insight into its rich tapestry of tales and legends.

The Final Moments:
Feel the solemnity of the condemned as you trace the final footsteps of the 55 prisoners led to the hanging pit. Witnessing the last moments at the only original, fully functional Victorian Hanging Pit in the UK prompts deep reflection.

Tours:
The chilling allure of Bodmin Jail is renowned as one of the UK’s most haunted historical sites. Join a Ghost Hunt and spend the night investigating potential paranormal activity. Delve into the eerie atmosphere independently or with the guidance of our paranormal hosts until the early hours of the morning. Enhance your visit with Heritage and Paranormal Tours, providing invaluable insights and experiences to make the most of your time there.

Bencoolen Play Park is Bude’s premier free destination for family fun!  Nestled along the main road from Stratton as you enter Bude, this expansive play haven has undergone a recent rejuvenation, boasting state-of-the-art equipment to cater to children of all ages.

Dive into a world of inclusive play with our diverse range of equipment, thoughtfully designed to ensure every child can join in the fun. For the littlest adventurers, we have a dedicated area tailored specifically for toddlers, ensuring their safety and enjoyment.

Take advantage of our spacious grassy area, complete with picnic benches, perfect for relaxing while the kids play. Our park is equipped with convenient bins and encircled by benches, offering ample seating for parents and guardians to supervise their little ones.

As a courtesy to all visitors, we kindly request that dogs remain outside the play area. Let’s keep the fun and excitement focused on our young explorers!