For Groups

Whether visiting Bude for a family gathering, or as a group of friends looking to share a common interest in a superb location with great food, great accommodation and loads to do, Bude should definitely be on your wish list!  There is so much to do for groups of all ages from enjoying the wonderful natural environment such as the Coastal Path, Bude Seal Pool and the superb geology, through to more active pursuits – surfing, sailing, SUP, rock climbing, golf, cycling, horse riding… the list goes on!   For those wishing to improve their skills, or for school groups, there are many great instructors to get you started with confidence!

And as the sun goes down on another action packed day, relax in one of the many bars, cafés or restaurants and reflect on another exciting day by the sea before heading back to your choice of accommodation for a welcome rest!

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.

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.

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.

Welcombe Pottery

Welcombe Pottery
Art & Craft Family friendly For Groups Unique experiences

Welcombe Pottery

In 2003, David Westcott and Alice Gare assumed ownership of Welcombe Pottery. This charming establishment, originally an old smithy, under went a transformation into a pottery and gallery back in 1972.

Alice Gare
From her earliest memories, Alice has always had a passion for crafting and embellishing objects. After completing a Fine Art studies at WSCAD, Farnham, in the early 90s, she embraced a career as a full-time potter alongside her partner, David. In 2010, she delved into the world of glass crafts, and has been fortunate enough to cultivate both practices in Welcombe.

Her artistic journey involves hand building unique pieces in earthenware and porcelain, employing a variety of techniques to delve into the realms of colour, texture, and form. Alice finds immense fascination in surface decoration, crafting transfers from her own prints, and utilizing slips while incorporating pressed plants and found objects into the clay body.

The vast sea and expansive skies of the North Devon/Cornish coastline serve as constant inspiration for both her glass and ceramic creations.

David Westcott
In the early 1970s, David’s journey with clay began with a degree in ceramics, igniting a lifelong passion for this extraordinary medium. From the outset, he was captivated by its endless possibilities, and over the years, he’s delved into various clays and glazes, ultimately finding his niche in stoneware and porcelain. His focus lies in crafting pottery for everyday use, where design and functionality intertwine seamlessly.

Each piece he create embodies a commitment to simplicity of form and a tactile, ergonomic experience. Central to his practice is the art of glazing — an area that has always fascinated David. Whether formulating new glazes or refining existing ones, for David every firing is an opportunity for experimentation and discovery.

Welcombe Pottery is more than just a studio; it’s a testament to the ever-evolving nature of ceramics. As David continues to explore new shapes and glazes, he is reminded of the boundless depth and diversity of this ancient craft. One lifetime scarcely scratches the surface of its complexity.

Creative Workshops
Alice and David run workshops themselves but also invite other artists in to teach.

The Shop
Visit their studio and you’ll discover a vibrant space where creativity flourishes amid this converted old Smithy. Both Alice and David showcase their unique ceramic creations for sale, inviting you to explore their artistic journey firsthand. Step into their open studio setting and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing process of pottery-making as Alice and David work on their latest masterpieces.

Feel free to browse their collections while witnessing the magic unfold right before your eyes. In addition to their own work, they are proud to feature a dedicated guest area highlighting the diverse talents of other artists.

 

 

 

Coasteering with Shoreline Extreme Sports

Coasteering with Shoreline Extreme Sports
Family friendly For Groups Nature & Scenery Outdoor Adventures Unique experiences Watersports

Coasteering with Shoreline Extreme Sports

Coasteering is an exhilarating mix of fun, thrills, and excitement. Upon arrival, the team at Shoreline will outfit you in wetsuits, buoyancy jackets, helmets, and a pair of old trainers before setting off to explore the rugged coastline of North Cornwall.

Whether you’re keen on swimming, diving, scrambling, or jumping, there are plenty of options to cater to everyone’s adrenaline levels. Their carefully selected location boasts sea caves, rocky outcrops to navigate, and ample opportunities for thrilling deep-water jumps.

But coasteering isn’t just for the adrenaline junkies. With jumps of various heights (all optional) and stunning underwater flora and fauna to admire, there’s something for everyone in this activity.

Rest assured, they only conduct sessions when sea and weather conditions are optimal. Their experienced instructor team, led by a qualified Beach Lifeguard Trainer and Mountain Instructor,ensures every session is conducted with safety and professionalism as top priorities.

Bodmin Jail

Bodmin Jail
Accessible Attractions Family friendly For Groups Heritage Unique experiences

Bodmin Jail

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

The South West’s only attraction named Tripadvisor Best of the Best every year from 2020 to 2026! This all-weather day out, with fun for all ages is simply unmissable.

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.

Make sure you claim your saving! We’re passing 100% of the government’s summer VAT savings directly to you! From 25 June to 1 September 2026, our transparent online ticket prices automatically include your saving. All the fun of the park for less this summer… Book Now to secure your tickets!

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.

 

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!

 

 

Budehaven Recreation Ground

Budehaven Recreation Ground
Accessible Attractions Dog friendly Family friendly For Groups Play Parks

Budehaven Recreation Ground

Welcome to Budehaven Recreation Ground which has been offering a range of sporting activities for visitors and locals alike for over 100 years! Situated just opposite Summerleaze Beach, close to the Wharf and Canal and only minutes’ walk away from the town centre it really does offer something for everyone.

There is a 9 hole crazy golf course and a brand new 18 hole mini golf course which is set in a picturesque spot looking straight across to the sand dunes of Summerleaze Beach.
The Grounds also have six recently resurfaced tennis courts, two squash courts, a bowling green and a putting green.

In addition, there is a great cafe with indoor and outdoor seating offering a range of hot and cold food and drinks including great coffee!

PIGSHED Sauna at Little Pig Wellness

PIGSHED Sauna at Little Pig Wellness
Entertainment Family friendly For Groups Outdoor Adventures Rainy day attractions Unique experiences

PIGSHED Sauna at Little Pig Wellness

Escape to the PIGSHED Sauna just a few minutes from Bude town centre for a restorative wellness experience designed to refresh the body and calm the mind. Set in the peaceful North Cornish countryside, this unique retreat combines soothing heat with invigorating cold-water therapy to help you feel energised, balanced, and renewed.

Enjoy the warmth of a traditional electric sauna, unwind in the hot tubs, and embrace the benefits of contrast therapy with two chilled baths set at 4°C and 12°C, plus a cold drench bucket for the ultimate revitalising reset.

Whether you’re recovering after an adventure, taking time out with friends, or simply looking to switch off, PIGSHED Sauna offers the perfect countryside escape for relaxation, recovery, and wellbeing.

St Eval Kart Circuit

St Eval Kart Circuit
Family friendly For Groups Sports Unique experiences

St Eval Kart Circuit

The Premier Karting Experience in Cornwall

Located along the breathtaking North Cornwall Coast between Newquay and Padstow, St. Eval Kart Circuit offers an exhilarating outdoor go-karting experience. Their expansive 1000m track is meticulously designed to accommodate racers of all skill levels, starting from 7 years old!
Designated sessions for various age groups, including 7–11-year-olds, teenagers and adults, and exclusive adult-only sessions, there’s something for everyone. And for the youngest enthusiasts, they provide a specially tailored circuit for 3 to 6-year-olds to enjoy their own thrilling adventure.
With the most extensive selection of karts in Cornwall, St. Eval Kart Circuit ensures there’s a kart to suit every age group. Their dedicated karts and tracks for each age bracket ensure an unparalleled karting experience for all participants.

 

The Big Sheep Farm & Theme Park

The Big Sheep Farm & Theme Park
Accessible Attractions Family friendly For Groups Rainy day attractions

The Big Sheep Farm & Theme Park

Experience Non-Stop Family Fun at North Devon’s Top Attraction

The Big Sheep, North Devon’s most popular family attraction, has delighted over 3.5 million visitors! This award-winning destination offers fun and laughter for tots, toddlers, teens, and adults alike, making it the perfect choice for a fantastic family day out, whatever the weather.

Award-Winning Shows and Thrilling Rides for the Whole Family

As North Devon’s leading family attraction, The Big Sheep promises unforgettable experiences for all. With hilarious shows, including the world-famous Sheep Race, kids and adults alike will be amazed. Watch sheep and jockeys race for glory, enjoy the “Sheep Show” where sheep from around the world take the stage, or witness the exciting Duck Trials and bottle feed the baby lambs at the Lamb Feeding show.

For thrill-seekers, hop on Devon’s largest family Roller Coaster, The Rampage, or take a spin on exhilarating outdoor rides like the Twister or Swan Pedalos and hop on the Giant Bouncing Pillow. The little’uns will love the Honey Pot Bear ride, Swing Boats, Mini Bouncing Pillow, and the scenic train ride at Eweston Station.

Indoor Fun for Kids of All Ages in EWEtopia Play Zone

Let the kids burn off energy in EWEtopia, the Big Sheep’s mega indoor play zone, where you’ll find an array of exciting slides, imaginative soft play, climbing areas, tumble towers, mazes, obstacles, and even a sensory room for babies. This indoor play centre ensures endless entertainment, rain or shine.

Meet Adorable Farm Animals Up Close

Introduce your children to the magic of farm life at the Big Sheep’s Pets’ Corner in the Animal Barn. Cuddle and feed baby farm animals, including newborn lambs, sheep, goats, piglets, chicks, and bunny rabbits. Meet the resident donkeys, alpacas, llamas and other friendly animals—a perfect experience for animal lovers.

Outdoor Adventures for the Entire Family

In addition to indoor fun, The Big Sheep offers outdoor play and adventure with giant jumping pillows, swing boats, tractor rides, and the Barnwood Bears Woodland Playground. The outdoor playground provides interactive activities for younger children, giving them a chance to explore the beauty of nature while having fun. Or experience the thrills and adrenaline rush at the Battlefield Combat Zone.

Family-Friendly Dining Options

Feeling hungry? Head over to The Barn Café for delicious meals, hot drinks, and freshly baked cakes, or grab a quick snack at Bo Peep’s Café in EWEtopia. Those of you who love fresh baked sourdough, rock cakes, and other tasty treats must visit the NEW Appledore Bakery on-site.   You’re also welcome to pack your own picnic and enjoy it in the beautifully maintained picnic area.

Seasonal Events and Family Festivals in North Devon

No matter the season, The Big Sheep has something special to offer. With Family Festivals and BIG Music Events in spring, summer, and autumn, and exciting events for Halloween, Bonfire Night, Christmas Markets, and the annual Easter Eggstravaganza, this North Devon attraction is always packed with family-friendly events for visitors of all ages.

For a day full of unforgettable moments and family-friendly entertainment, The Big Sheep Farm & Theme Park in North Devon is the ultimate family attraction, offering unique shows, thrilling rides, and indoor and outdoor fun for all ages!

Book online and SAVE at The Big Sheep – The best family day out in North Devon!

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