Family friendly

There are plenty of places to take the kids in and around Bude.  Aside from the lure of beaches, buckets and spades you will find several safe play areas.  There are also some great short walks with plenty to see and do for those with shorter legs and lots of curiosity.  It needn’t cost an arm and a leg either, with the town and surrounding area boasting several free activities for kids in Cornwall.

Pencarrow House

Pencarrow House
Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Heritage Nature & Scenery

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.

 

Bodmin Keep

Bodmin Keep
Accessible Attractions Dog friendly Family friendly Heritage Rainy day attractions

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.

 

Coasteering with OA Surf Club

Coasteering with OA Surf Club
Family friendly For Groups Nature & Scenery Outdoor Adventures Sports Watersports

Coasteering with OA Surf Club

With over two decades of expertise, OA Surf Club stands out as one of the pioneering companies to introduce coasteering in Bude and Cornwall.

If you’re seeking a holiday adventure like no other, consider coasteering—an exhilarating activity seamlessly blending swimming, scrambling, and cliff jumping into the sea. Immerse yourself in an exploration that unveils the coastline from a unique perspective. Traverse through natural arches, venture into sea caves, navigate barnacle-covered ledges, and experience the thrill of plunging into the crystal-clear waters of the Cornish sea. Swim across inlets, uncover hidden beaches, and embark on an unforgettable journey along the stunning coastline.

Your safety is our utmost priority.

Rest easy and fully immerse yourself in the coasteering adventure, as we handle all the details for you. We provide all the specialized equipment necessary, leaving you to simply bring your swimwear, a towel, and closed-toe footwear for the sea—we’ll take care of the rest.

Wetsuits, buoyancy aids, helmets, and any other essential gear are included to ensure you’re fully equipped for the adventure. With our experienced coasteering guides, safety is paramount. Trust in the expertise and skills of our team, allowing you to focus on enjoying every moment of your coastal exploration.

Discover Cornwall’s incredible wildlife.

Our instructors have a wealth of knowledge and will choose a thrilling and stimulating route that will challenge and excite you. We have been coasteering in Bude for over 20 years. Along the way keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, and other marine life that inhabit the area, learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife-filled rock pools that you’ll encounter along the way.

We understand that each individual and group has different abilities and preferences, which is why our coasteering sessions are pitched at the perfect level to suit your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced coasteering enthusiast, we’ll tailor the experience to ensure that you get the most out of your adventure.

Coasteering for groups.

If you’re looking for a group activity, then Coasteering is perfect. Whether you’re a corporate group, stag do/hen do, birthday party, scout group or just a bunch of friends, Coasteering is an unforgettable adrenaline filled experience, and will fill you with energy for a night out or refresh you from the night before!!

We can offer private sessions for any size group, this allows our guides the complete freedom to adapt a session towards your expectations.

RHS Garden Rosemoor

RHS Garden Rosemoor
Accessible Attractions Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Heritage Nature & Scenery Unique experiences

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.

Coasteering with Freewave Surf Academy

Coasteering with Freewave Surf Academy
Family friendly For Groups Outdoor Adventures Sports Watersports

Coasteering with Freewave Surf Academy

Embark on an extraordinary and thrilling aquatic adventure with coasteering near Bude. Suitable for various groups and ages, this action-packed experience promises excitement and awe.

Meet The Coasteering Team
Our team comprises certified and seasoned coasteering instructors who will lead you through the intertidal zone along Bude’s breathtaking coastline. Dive into expansive Cornish sea caves, discover wildlife-abundant rock pools, access hidden and secluded beaches around Bude, and take the plunge from one of our thrilling cliff jumping spots!

Discover The Coasteering Venues
While our primary venue is at Bossiney Bay near Bude, Cornwall, we also have access to multiple venues scattered along the stunning Cornwall coastline. Each location presents a variety of thrilling opportunities, explorations, and experiences in a spectacular environment. The choice of coasteering site will be based on the day’s conditions, making transportation essential for your coasteering adventure with us.

Craft Your Coasteering Experience

Tailored to suit the needs and abilities of each group, our coasteering sessions provide all necessary safety equipment. Just bring along old trainers that you don’t mind getting wet. Participants must be over 10 years old, capable of swimming 50 meters unaided, and those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Begin your session by meeting your coasteering guide near Bude, Cornwall. Once you’re ready, don a wetsuit, buoyancy aid, and helmet, and don’t forget those water-friendly shoes! Pay close attention to the coasteering safety briefing from the lead guide, who will provide insights into what to expect from your coasteering adventure. Familiarize yourself with the ‘do’s’ and ‘do not’s’ before immersing yourself in the beauty of the Cornish sea and exploring Bude’s enchanting coastline.

Minimum age for coasteering with us in Bude, Cornwall is 10 years old. All participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult during the activity.

Surfing with OA Surf Club

Surfing with OA Surf Club
Family friendly For Groups Outdoor Adventures Sports Watersports

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.

Surfing with Shoreline Extreme Sports

Surfing with Shoreline Extreme Sports
Family friendly For Groups Outdoor Adventures Sports Watersports

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.

Happy Paws Dog Field

Happy Paws Dog Field
Dog friendly Family friendly Outdoor Adventures Rainy day attractions

Happy Paws Dog Field

We offer a range of services designed to create a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for dogs and their humans.

Private Field Hire
Enjoy exclusive use of our secure dog field with total peace of mind

  • Fully enclosed space with 6ft fencing
  • 30 or 60-minute time slots
  • Suitable for reactive, nervous, or energetic dogs
  • One booking at a time — no shared use
  • Safe parking and easy access

Solo Dog Sessions
Perfect for individual dogs or dogs from the same household

  • Quiet, controlled environment
  • No other dogs or people present
  • Ideal for dogs that need focused attention

Enrichment & Agility Area
Stimulate your dog’s mind and body with extra activities.

  • Basic agility equipment (e.g. tunnels, jumps, weaves)
  • A fun podium to take a picture of your dog
  • Designed to encourage confidence and exercise

Dry Dog Area
Highly beneficial for both dogs and their owners

  • Reduces the risk of health problems associated with dampness
  • Provides a comfortable space for dogs to rest and play
  • More usable in various weather conditions

Monster Slip and Slide Bude

Monster Slip and Slide Bude
Family friendly For Groups Unique experiences Watersports

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!”

 

 

 

Docton Mill Gardens and Tea Rooms

Docton Mill Gardens and Tea Rooms
Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Heritage Nature & Scenery

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.

Keypitts Off Road Adventures

Keypitts Off Road Adventures
Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Nature & Scenery Outdoor Adventures Unique experiences

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!

 

 

Teylu Glass

Teylu Glass
Art & Craft Family friendly For Groups Rainy day attractions

Teylu Glass

The inspiration for our creative endeavours is drawn from the Cornish word for family, “Teylu.” Together, as a family unit, we have ventured into the world of fused glass art and workshops, creating pieces that reflect the beauty and warmth synonymous with the Cornish spirit.

In the heart of our artistic journey is Beau Nidol, a space where two sisters, fuelled by a passion for cutting glass and crafting fused glass art, collaborate with their mother, Julie. Beyond being a family-run venture, it’s a place where creativity flourishes, and the unique charm of Cornwall infuses every creation.

From these roots, Teylu Glass emerged—a testament to the bonds of family and the pursuit of a life where moments with loved ones take precedence. We invite you to join us on this extraordinary adventure, where art, family, and the Cornish spirit converge to create something truly exceptional. Welcome to Teylu Glass, where every piece tells a story of family, love, and the beauty of Cornwall.

At Teylu Glass, our customers are an extension of our family. Our aim is to create an atmosphere where you feel entirely at ease and relaxed during workshops. We want you to derive the utmost enjoyment from your time with us, crafting beautiful, fused glass items. Your comfort is our priority, and we look forward to welcoming you into our creative space. We have an array of workshops, including engaging sessions tailored for primary-aged children, workshops designed for those aged 12 and above, and exclusive private parties ideal for hens, stags, team-building events, and birthday celebrations. We’re also equipped to accommodate small school groups or clubs such as scouts and youth clubs.

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