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.

Moon Hare Studio

Moon Hare Studio
Art & Craft Family friendly For Groups Rainy day attractions Unique experiences

Moon Hare Studio

Adela Webb is a self-taught mosaic artist with a diverse background encompassing textiles, photography, and graphics. Despite lacking formal training in mosaic art, her qualifications and working experience in various creative fields have significantly influenced her artistic journey.

 

In December 2015, Adela ventured into mosaic art for the first time, prompted by receiving stained glass as a Christmas gift. Her artistic exploration took root and flourished from that point onward.

 

Adela’s life has been marked by frequent relocations, including a notable nine-year stint in the USA. During her time in San Diego, California, she discovered inspiration in the works of artist Niki De Saint Phalle, particularly at the Queen Califia’s Magical Circle sculpture garden. Niki’s mosaic sculptures left an enduring impression on Adela, shaping the direction of her own mosaic endeavours.

Adela’s artistic expression finds its voice through the vibrant and expressive materials she employs. Her passion for colour and pattern radiates through her mosaics, characterized by intricate swirls, curves, and elements inspired by both nature and spirituality. Each piece reflects not only her artistic talent but also the diverse experiences that have shaped her creative journey.

The magic of mosaic is not just in the finished product but bringing people together in a shared experience. So gather around your friends and family for a workshop or one of Adela’s many take-away kits for a unique and delightful experience for everyone involved.

Workshops:

  • Recyled china
  • Stain glass
  • Garden plaque/house number,
  • Garden bunting
  • Roman style
  • Mosaic jewellery
  • Parent and child sessions for children 8 and over.
  • Private group sessions, tailored to your requirements.

Mosiac Art Kits:
These take-away kits contain everything you need for you own at home mosiac project. Precut mosaic shapes, mdf base, grout & mixing tub, glue, grout hanging hardware and instructions.

 

 

 

 

Crooklets Pirate Ship

Crooklets Pirate Ship
Dog friendly Family friendly Play Parks

Crooklets Pirate Ship

Perched on the sandy shores and nestled along the lively promenade at Crooklets Beach, you’ll find a sprawling, purpose-built wooden shipwreck playground, beckoning adventurers of all ages.

With its captivating design and ample space for exploration, this maritime marvel promises endless fun and excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a landlubber, the shipwreck offers an immersive play experience that will ignite the imagination and create lasting memories.

Conveniently positioned near the Downs, this play area serves as the perfect pit stop before embarking on a picturesque stroll across the scenic landscape from Crooklets to Summerleaze. It’s a seamless blend of adventure and tranquility, ensuring a memorable seaside escapade for the whole family.

2ndLyfe

2ndLyfe
Art & Craft Family friendly

2ndLyfe

Dive into a world of colour, crafts, and cheer with our “Little Makers” craft sessions, where every child’s creativity soars. Your little ones can find the perfect craft to match their age and skill. We offer a wide range of activities, from simple and fun to intricate and challenging designs, ensuring each crafting journey is just right for their developing talents. Sessions are held at our Bude store and last up to one hour. Join us and watch your child’s imagination come to life!

Bude Sea Pool

Bude Sea Pool
Family friendly For Groups Nature & Scenery Outdoor Adventures Unique experiences

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.

St Nectan’s Glen

St Nectan’s Glen
Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Nature & Scenery

St Nectan’s Glen

Beau Nidol

Beau Nidol
Art & Craft Family friendly Rainy day attractions Unique experiences

Beau Nidol

Welcome to Beau Nidol, your destination for captivating glass art and distinctive gifts. Overlooking Bude Canal and nestled along the breathtaking North Cornwall coast, our intimate shop and studio invite you to explore a world of creativity.

At Beau Nidol, we not only showcase and sell our own art on-site, but we also offer enriching half-day fused glass and Tiffany glass workshops. Immerse yourself in the art of glass creation as you bring your vision to life.

Our workshops provide a perfect opportunity for artistic expression. We extend a warm welcome to children as young as 12 when accompanied by an adult.

Discover the joy of crafting glass art at Beau Nidol, where every piece tells a story of passion and imagination.


Fused Glass Workshops

Embark on a creative journey with our Fused Glass Workshops, lasting approximately 2 hours. During this immersive experience, you’ll have the opportunity to craft unique items such as plaques, suncatchers, jewellery, or a design of your choice.

The workshop fee covers a set amount of glass, but for those dreaming bigger, additional glass can be purchased. We also offer the option to mount your creation on driftwood for a small fee, with other display choices available.

After your artistic endeavour, your masterpiece will undergo a transformative process in the kiln overnight. If additional work, such as drilling holes or mounting on driftwood, is requested, pieces will be ready for collection or postage 48 hours after the workshop (postage costs vary based on size).

Fused Glass Workshops are suitable for ages 12 and above, making it a perfect family-friendly activity.

Tiffany Glass Workshops

Discover the artistry of Tiffany glass, a technique pioneered by Louis Comfort Tiffany also known as copper foil glass. Immerse yourself in the captivating process of wrapping glass edges in copper foil, skilfully soldering them together to craft intricate designs.

During our Tiffany glass workshops, you’ll embark on a journey of learning, mastering glass cutting, copper foiling, and soldering techniques. Choose from a selection of small panel designs that serve as a canvas for your creativity.

Our Tiffany glass workshops offer a fulfilling experience spanning 2 to 3 hours, perfect for ages 14 and above.

Unveil the beauty of Tiffany glass under the guidance of skilled artisans at Beau Nidol.

Tamar Lakes

Tamar Lakes
Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Nature & Scenery Outdoor Adventures Sports Watersports

Tamar Lakes

Nestled amid the idyllic British countryside and peacefully situated on the Cornwall and Devon border, Upper and Lower Tamar Lakes are steeped in industrial history and teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Established in the 1820s, Lower Tamar Lake boasts a rich history. As a designated Nature Reserve, it provides an ideal sanctuary to connect with nature. Take a moment of tranquillity in the bird hide, where sightings of ospreys, sandpipers, and cormorants are possible.

Remarkably, the boundary between Devon and Cornwall cuts directly through the centre of Upper Tamar Lake!

Beyond the natural richness of both lakes, Upper Tamar Lake offers a plethora of activities catering to all preferences, complemented by an on-site café ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors what ever age. Activities including walking, canoeing, cycling, fishing, kayaking, rowing, SUP, sailing and windsurfing.

Activities at Tamar Lakes 

  • Walking: Set out on a close encounter with nature as you explore our way-marked walking trails tracing the scenic shorelines of both lakes. The circular path around Upper Tamar Lake spans approximately 2.8 miles (4.5 km), creating an ideal route for a picturesque lakeside walk. Suitable for pushchairs, mobility scooters and wheelchairs.
  • Parkrun: Every Saturday at 9 am, Parkrun events take place at upper Tamar Lake, providing an excellent opportunity to join fellow enthusiasts and challenge yourself in this scenic setting!
  • Kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and rowing are all available at Upper Tamar Lake, you can hire the equipment or self launch.
  • Fishing: Upper Tamar Lake is an ideal destination for your next angling expedition, acclaimed as the top still water coarse fishery in the UK in 2021!
  • Cycling: The three-mile loop surrounding the upper lake provides an enjoyable and family-friendly cycling experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

North Devon Wake Park

North Devon Wake Park
Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Outdoor Adventures Unique experiences Watersports

North Devon Wake Park

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of North Devon’s landscapes at North Devon Wake Park. This family-friendly water sports park is conveniently located just 10 minutes from the picturesque Southwest coastline. The stunning lake is surrounded by lush fields and tranquil countryside, provides an enchanting backdrop for water sports enthusiasts and novices.

Dive into the excitement at the Aqua Park, where thrilling challenges evoke the exhilarating obstacles of “Total Wipeout.” Experience the excitement of wakeboarding or feel the rush of adrenaline on the Ringo rides. For the ultimate adventure, make it a day to remember by combining all these heart pounding activities!

Enjoy the convenience of on-site parking, along with well-equipped changing rooms and hot showers, enhancing your overall experience. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome as there is a foot path around the lake.

Aqua Park
Step into an enthralling world of adventure at the Aqua Park reminiscent of the exhilarating challenges seen on ‘Total Wipeout.’ Envision yourself navigating through an aquatic playground, slides that curve and twist, climbing frames that challenge your agility, jumping platforms that test your bravery, and a race track adorned with playful obstacles. Each element is meticulously designed to deliver a thrilling blend of adrenaline and joy.

In a commitment to safety and enjoyment, North Devon Wake Park have  intentionally limit their capacity to less than 50% of the manufacturer’s recommendation. This careful approach creates a spacious and secure environment, ensuring that whether you’re a competitive racer or just here for the fun, there’s plenty of room for everyone to explore, play, and craft unforgettable memories with loved ones.

At the Aqua Park, every splash tells a story, and each visit leaves you eagerly anticipating more!

Wakeboarding
Experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of wakeboarding with a state-of-the-art facilities include two dynamic straight-line cables and the WakeparX full-size cable. sessions are designed for all levels of experience.

Ringo Rides
Feel the rush of adrenaline with an exciting Ringo ride, perfect for speed enthusiasts! Ringo Rides cater to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re seeking the exhilaration of being towed behind a boat or a milder adventure, Ringo rides have it all.

Open Water Swimming
The lake is a serene 550-meter circuit of calm water. Ideal for open-water swimmers, triathletes, or anyone seeking the joy of swimming in fresh, spring-fed water, the facility ensures a safe and pristine environment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sea and Surf Kayaking with Shoreline Extreme Sports

Sea and Surf Kayaking with Shoreline Extreme Sports
Family friendly For Groups Outdoor Adventures Watersports

Sea and Surf Kayaking with Shoreline Extreme Sports

Bude offers an ideal setting for various paddle sports adventures,  utilizing the sea, surf, canal, and local rivers.

Within Shoreline’s coaching team, is former World Champion, Simon Hammond, acclaimed author of “Surf Kayaking: The Essential Guide” and an International Surf Kayak Coach. You really will be learning from the best!

One of the most thrilling adventures in Bude is paddling down the Bude canal and out into Summerleaze Bay. From there, depending on conditions, you can continue along the coastline to explore the numerous inlets and channels between the rocks, landing on deserted beaches. On the return journey, the Shoreline team will find a surf beach and teach you how to ride the waves, providing ample time for practice, which is both easier than you think and incredibly enjoyable.

If conditions are flat and calm, they will focus on coastal exploration. If there’s plenty of surf, they will emphasize the surfing aspect. Regardless, they guarantee you’ll have an unforgettable time.

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.

The Milky Way Adventure Park

The Milky Way Adventure Park
Entertainment Family friendly For Groups Play Parks Rainy day attractions Unique experiences

The Milky Way Adventure Park

Don’t miss out on a visit to the only attraction in the West Country to be awarded Tripadvisor’s highest accolade, the Best of the Best Award in 2025 … and every year for the past 10 years!

The Milky Way Adventure Park is an all-weather family attraction packed with rides, live shows, indoor play, and hands-on fun. Located near Clovelly, just 25 minutes from Bude, it’s one of the top things to do with kids in the area.

Indoor and Outdoor Attractions for All Ages

With a brilliant mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, the park has something for everyone. Save planet Earth on Ziggy’s Blast Quest interactive ride, feel the rush on the Cosmic Typhoon rollercoaster, challenge the family on the accessible mini golf course, or enjoy a breathtaking birds of prey display. Younger children will love the soft play, bouncing pillows, and mini train, while teens can test their skills in the Ninja Stars arena.

All-Weather Family Fun near Bude

If you’re looking for things to do with kids or planning a family day out near Bude, The Milky Way is a top choice, even on rainy days – with rides, play areas, shows and activities for all ages, all in one place. The whole park has been designed for all ages to have fun together! Family-owned for over 40 years, it offers a relaxed, friendly, and great-value full day out and most guests are here around 5 hours on average.

Great Value Family Day Out – Rides, Shows & More Included

All rides, shows and most activities are included in your entry ticket, offering fantastic value for families. What’s included …

Tickets include all our rides, play areas and live shows, with just a few optional extras like pottery painting (priced per piece from £4 and up), Penalty Pro Football (£2 per game), and Ninja Stars (£2.95 wristband with credit included, and option to purchase further credits available at £1.50 per credit). Prices correct as at 1st July 2025.

 

Hartland Abbey and Gardens

Hartland Abbey and Gardens
Family friendly For Groups Heritage Nature & Scenery

Hartland Abbey and Gardens

About
Hartland Abbey holds a unique charm as it continues to be cherished by the family, distinguishing itself from many ancestral homes that have transitioned into mere museums. Here, you’ll encounter the genuine warmth and hospitality that can only be found in a home that is truly lived in.

Experience a heartfelt welcome as you step through the doors, followed by the option of a captivating, guided tour for groups, should you desire one. Alternatively, take your time to explore the house, gardens, and scenic walks at your own pace, indulging in a delightful lunch or cream tea—or why not both?

Whether you opt for a guided tour or a leisurely wander, Hartland Abbey promises an unforgettable experience imbued with the essence of family heritage and a genuine sense of home.

History
Constructed in 1157 and consecrated by Bishop Bartholomew of Exeter in 1160 AD, Hartland Abbey began its journey as a monastery for the regular canons of the Order of St Augustine of Hippo. For nearly four centuries, it stood as a spiritual haven until 1539 when it witnessed the dissolution of monasteries under Henry VIII’s reign, becoming the last monastery in the country to succumb to this fate.

Following its dissolution, Henry VIII bestowed Hartland Abbey upon Mr. William Abbott, the Sergeant of his Wine Cellar at Hampton Court. This generous gift initiated a new chapter in the abbey’s history, as the Abbott family became its custodians, passing down the stewardship through generations. Today, descendants of Mr. William Abbott continue to reside within the Abbey, preserving its rich heritage and sharing its captivating stories with visitors.

Visitor Information
A visit to Hartland Abbey promises fun and fascination for visitors of all ages, with its enchanting gardens and sprawling grounds offering a delightful array of activities. While adults immerse themselves in the rich history of the house and gardens, children can embark on an adventure with the Abbey Quiz (with a prize for all), follow the Malory Towers Trail, or explore the charming paths and woodland walks teeming with nature’s wonders—a total of 3 1/2 miles to explore!

Indulge in delicious homemade light lunches and cream teas at the Old Kitchens Tea Room (accessible only with House and/or Garden tickets), offering a delightful culinary experience amidst historic surroundings.

Don’t miss out on the engaging exhibitions, museum, gift shop, and plant stall, where you can uncover treasures and souvenirs to cherish.

While access to the house involves steps and may pose challenges for wheelchairs, assistance is available. The Tea Room and Exhibitions offer flat and wheelchair-accessible pathways. Unfortunately, electric mobility wheelchairs cannot be accommodated inside the house due to narrow rooms and corridors. However, the surrounding gravel areas provide ease of movement, and the gardens boast accessible sections, such as The Shrubbery.

For outdoor enthusiasts, picnics can be enjoyed on the spacious grassy car park, offering a perfect setting for relaxation and al fresco dining.

While they adore dogs at Hartland Abbey, they kindly request that they remain on leads. Guide dogs are welcome inside the house. Ample parking is available adjacent to the house, ensuring convenience for all visitors.

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