Outdoor Adventures
While you’re free to take it seriously easy on your visit to Bude, it is the endless variety of action and adventure that tends to draw regulars back time and again. With stacks of activities for all tastes and ages, we are one of the best holiday destinations in Cornwall for outdoor pursuits and all things active. This section contains fun things to do in Bude from light hearted fun to the thrills of coasteering and rock climbing.
In addition to the great outdoors, Bude also has various attractions and all weather activities that provide fun and recreation come rain or shine, all year. Many of these are just a short drive away and relatively inexpensive for parents in search of family activities or things to do on a rainy day.
Surfing with OA Surf Club
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.
Independent Charters - Sea Fishing and Sightseeing Trips
Independent Charters - Sea Fishing and Sightseeing Trips
Discover the wonders of the sea with Independent Charters, departing from Clovelly Harbour, the historic fishing village of North Devon. This family-run business, led by Dave and Doug Walls, brings over 40 years of angling expertise and more than two decades as Lifeboat Crew at Clovelly.
You will set sail in a Mitchell 31 MK II boat, boasting onboard toilet and handwash amenities. This vessel provides seating for up to 12 passengers, including a dedicated crew member. Your skipper will navigate the waters with ease on this reliable and spacious boat, ensuring a memorable experience for you and your companions.
Choose from an array of options, including sea angling trips, sea fly fishing, boat charter fishing, reef & wreck fishing, and Marine Wildlife & Lundy Island expeditions.
The rich waters around North Devon offer opportunities to catch Pollock, bream, sea trout, mackerel, tope, Porbegle, and more.
Join Doug and Dave for an unforgettable maritime adventure, where their passion meets a wealth of experience.
Clovelly
Clovelly
Clovelly is a unique village once owned by the Queen of England and from Elizabethan days until today, it has been in private ownership, which has helped preserve its original atmosphere. Clinging to a 400 foot cliff in North Devon, it has no vehicular traffic on its steeply cobbled street, just donkeys and sledges. The man-powered sledges transport all goods to the village, from groceries to furniture. Donkeys used to be the main form of transport for centuries, but now mainly give children rides during the summer or can be seen posing for photographs in the street.
There is much to see and do, and the village hosts a variety of events throughout the year. As well as live music, demonstrations, street entertainments, stalls galore and craft activities, you can also find out more about seaweed at the ‘Know Your Seaweed’ Talks and experience the Shipwreck Survival Workshop.
SUP with Freewave Surf Academy
SUP with Freewave Surf Academy
Experience the Excitement of Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)
A stand-up paddleboarding lesson is an excellent introduction to this rapidly growing sport. The stability of the large surfboard-style paddle board provides a secure platform for standing. With the use of an extra-long canoe-style paddle, you can effortlessly navigate the waters within minutes. Stand-up paddleboarding is less demanding than surfing, making it accessible to everyone in your group.
Immerse yourself in a stand-up paddleboarding lesson during your visit to Bude. Discover the charm of Bude’s historic waterways, connect with nature, and acquire a new skill while creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re in a large group, with family, friends, or enjoying a solo adventure, stand-up paddleboard lessons offer an enjoyable experience.
Gear Up for Adventure
Equip yourself with a suitably sized inflatable paddle board and an extendable paddle. Pay close attention to instructions, and you might stay dry—though, a wetsuit is available just in case! Once on the water, you’ll learn to manoeuvre the board first on your knees before gracefully standing up and exploring the waterways like a pro. Get ready for a memorable and enjoyable stand-up paddleboarding experience in the picturesque surroundings of Bude.
Bude Sea Pool
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.
Ivyleaf Golf Centre
Ivyleaf Golf Centre
Golf Course
Nestled just 3 miles north of the charming coastal town of Bude, this family-friendly golf centre features a picturesque 9-hole course set amidst the spectacular Cornish countryside.
Measuring at 2300 yards, the 9-hole golf course presents breathtaking panoramic views of the Cornish coastline, Bude town, and the inland moors.
Perfect for golfers of all ages, particularly beginners, Ivyleaf prides itself on being beginner-friendly. They foster a relaxed environment with no dress code and eliminate the hassle of tee time reservations—simply show up and dive into the joy of golfing fun! Take advantage of the convenient club, trolley, and buggy rentals to enhance your experience, or feel free to bring your own.
The course is open 7 days a week, allowing you to savour a leisurely round at your own pace.
Golf Range
Perfect your swing at the dynamic driving range at Ivy Leaf Golf Centre!
Boasting 7 undercover bays, indulge in focused practice sessions regardless of the weather.
Their range features high-quality Srixon 2-piece range balls for an authentic feel to your shots.
Extend your practice into the evening with LED floodlights illuminating the range until 9 pm (Monday-Saturday), ensuring optimal visibility for every swing.
Outside, a £1 coin-operated ball dispenser adds convenience to your practice routine.
Ample parking and club hire, making it accessible for golfers of all abilities to enhance their game.
Golf Simulator
Dive into a world of golfing thrills with our advanced simulator at Ivy Leaf Golf Centre! Choose from a selection of over 150,000 courses, elevate your game with detailed shot analysis, and share the experience with up to 4 players per session. Swing by and play the course of your dreams today!
Important: Use of the golf simulator is only during office hours. If you wish to book outside of these times, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
Join Ivyleaf Golf Centre for an experience that combines the beauty of the surroundings with the joy of the game.
Canoe Canal Adventures with Shoreline Extreme Sports
Canoe Canal Adventures with Shoreline Extreme Sports
Canoeing, or Canadian Canoeing, allows a group of people (typically two, but can accommodate up to four) to paddle a large open-cockpit canoe. One key distinction between an open canoe and a kayak is the type of paddle used; canoes utilize single-bladed paddles, whereas kayaks use double-ended paddles.
Shoreline’s canoeing courses primarily take place on the historic rural Bude Canal, which meanders up the Neat Valley for nearly two miles. This canal offers an ideal setting to teach canoeing techniques in a safe and sheltered environment.
For the Canal Canoe Adventure, you’ll be equip you with a canoe and provide initial instruction on paddling and maneuvering techniques. After some practice time, you’ll get a brief and you’ll be provided a challenge map before allowing you to venture off on your own to explore the canal and discover the answers to the challenge’s questions. It’s a fantastic experience for groups or families, ensuring everyone stays engaged and entertained, including your furry friends!
North Devon Wake Park
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.
Canadian Canoeing with Atlantic Pursuits
Canadian Canoeing with Atlantic Pursuits
Canadian Canoeing is a traditional long canoe that can seat between 2 and 4 people, as per the Inuit and Canadian First Nation people used many years ago. You use a single blade paddle which you use one side only.
It is a great activity requiring a little bit of team work and learning steering skills as you paddle up Bude Canal, an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Specializing in small groups and private family outings, ensures that your session consists of just 6-8 people, giving you exclusive access. Head Coach Sam Roberts brings over 30 years of outdoor experience to the table. As a national trainer for British Canoeing, one of the top 5 coaches in the UK, and a former international competitor for Team GB, his expertise and passion for canoeing are unparalleled.
Atlantic Pursuits pride themselves on offering quality equipment that is regularly updated and well-maintained. From buoyancy aids to dry-cags and stable canoes, they provide everything you need for a safe and enjoyable experience.
You’ll spend most of your session in the water, maximizing your fun. The introductions and warm-ups are informative but concise, ensuring you make the most of your time. Safety is paramount, which is why Sam and his team are all qualified with British Canoeing. Canoeing on flat water is extremely safe and ideal for families. Age is just a number! Canoeing sessions are suitable for individuals aged 5 and up, so don’t let age hold you back. Whether you’re 5 or 85, canoeing is a fantastic activity for everyone to enjoy!
Bude Canoe Experience
Bude Canoe Experience
Embark on an award-winning Bude Canoe Experience, a thrilling adventure suitable for all, as you paddle open canoes along the stunning Bude Canal.
No prior experience or special attire is needed.
Discover the essentials of canoe paddling, then set off on a captivating canoe journey to explore, encounter wildlife, and hone various canoeing skills.
The Bude Canal boasts an abundance of wildlife and intriguing history – you’ll learn all about it and gain a fresh and exhilarating perspective as you observe the countryside and waterway.
Expect to witness jumping fish, herons, kingfishers, moorhens, cormorants, warblers, ducks, geese, dragonflies, and, if you’re fortunate, perhaps an otter, water vole, or snake!
No matter your skill level, our expert guide will ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.
All canoe experiences are exclusive, with only your group and a knowledgeable guide. Bring your canine companions along—they’re more than welcome!
Surfing with Freewave Surf Academy
Surfing with Freewave Surf Academy
Whether you’re a novice eager to ride your first wave or someone looking to enhance existing skills, our surfing experiences at Widemouth Bay in Bude, are designed to provide you with the essential surfing skills, knowledge, and the confidence you seek.
If you are embarking on your “learn to surf” journey or aiming to improve your abilities both are best achieved through expert guidance from skilled and experienced coaches. With the right surfing instruction and quality equipment, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can conquer the waves. The thrill of catching your first wave during your initial surfing lesson is bound to be one of the most exhilarating experiences you’ll ever have.
Nestled at the stunning surfing haven of Widemouth Bay our surf school offers an ideal setting for our lessons. We prioritize personalized attention through small group surf lessons, ensuring that you receive focused guidance. All necessary equipment is included, and each surfing lesson spans between 2 to 2.5 hours.
For those seeking a more tailored experience, we provide Private Surfing Lessons, and we are equipped to handle large group surf bookings. Contact us for further details on these customized options and let us be your guide to a memorable surfing adventure.
Coasteering with OA Surf Club
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.