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.
SUP with Bude Surfing Experience
SUP with Bude Surfing Experience
Unwind Your Mind – Energize Your Body – Boost Your Mood.
Paddleboarding, or SUP, offers an attainable and serene alternative to surfing, rapidly becoming one of the most popular water sports globally. Join Bude Surfing Experience to grasp the fundamentals of SUP on Bude Canal, surrounded by nature in an ideal setting for all weather conditions. Explore the picturesque canal, either through a guided lesson or independently with our premium SUP rental equipment. Suitable for all ages and confidence levels, this provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the water.
We assure you that your sessions will be filled with smiles and laughter throughout! Our team of highly experienced instructors is dedicated to ensuring the entire session is safe, enjoyable, and packed with valuable information.
Experience the freedom to explore Bude Canal at your own pace by renting our paddleboards, paddles, and buoyancy aids. You can find our trailer conveniently located by Bude Canal and at the Bude Tourist Information Centre. To ensure availability, especially during peak times, we recommend booking online in advance or giving us a call. Whether you choose an hour or two, renting a paddleboard provides the independence to immerse yourself in nature on the canal.
Our equipment hire service operates daily from 9 am to 5 pm, offering you the flexibility to enjoy your paddleboarding adventure at a time that suits you best.
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.
Surfing with Saltwater Safari
Surfing with Saltwater Safari
About Saltwater Safari:
For those familiar with Pete “Smudge” Smith, it’s no secret that he boasts over two decades of experience as a coach in the adventure sports industry. Holding qualifications as a climbing coach, International Mountain Leader, and a certified teacher, Pete’s expertise lies in extracting the best from individuals in challenging environments.
With a wealth of experience, Pete is a Level 2 Surf Coach and Adaptive Surf Coach accredited by the ISA (International Surf Association). Additionally, he is a Level 3 Beginner Surf SUP instructor certified by the ASI (Academy of Surf Instructors). His aim is to impart a deep understanding of the sea, enriching your surfing experience.
Ethos:
Aligned with our commitment to delivering Saltwater Safari adventures tailored exclusively for you, we conduct surf sessions for individuals or small private groups. This ensures a personalized experience shared only with your friends and/or family.
Every session we conduct is unique, tailored to your needs and aspirations, promoting a different and progressive experience each time, regardless of your skill level.
Our sessions allow you to forge shared memories with your family and friends. These experiences will linger in your thoughts, becoming cherished moments that you’ll reminisce about long after your holiday has concluded!
Our focus is on you acquiring new skills and valuable knowledge about the sea, and hopefully, about yourself.
Location:
Saltwater Safari proudly holds a license from Cornwall Council to conduct water-based activities on Crooklets and Summerleaze beaches in the beautiful town of Bude.
We’ll meet you at the Saltwater Safari trailer in the Crooklets car park. Here, we’ll ensure you’re well-equipped for an exciting surf session.
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.
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.
SUP Yoga with Bude Surfing Experience
SUP Yoga with Bude Surfing Experience
Discover the tranquillity of SUP Yoga, a truly mindful experience suitable for all abilities. No prior experience in either paddleboarding or yoga is necessary, making it accessible to everyone. However, if you’re a dedicated practitioner, our instructor Emma can tailor the session to your level of expertise.
Join us for early morning sessions designed to immerse you in nature, providing a break from the chaos of daily life. As the world awakens, paddle out to a serene spot to begin your yoga practice.
Meeting at our trailer near the Bude Tourist Information Centre, come prepared with yoga or comfortable clothing, swimwear underneath, and any necessary medication.
Once you experience the serenity of SUP Yoga, we’re confident you’ll be drawn to join us again!
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!
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.
Surfing with Atlantic Pursuits
Surfing with Atlantic Pursuits
SURFING AND BODY BOARDING WITH ATLANTIC PURSUITS
Ever wondered about the differences between surfing and body/boogie boarding? Allow us to shed some light on the nuances:
Surfing:
The objective is to catch a wave substantial enough for you to stand on the board and ride the wave. By using long boards, extending up to 9 feet, these are easier to balance on and control. It’s a thrilling activity where you typically remain within chest-depth waters to catch a wave. Our instructors are on hand to assist you in catching the perfect wave, providing you with the optimal opportunity to ride the board with style and skill.
Body/Boogie Boarding:
On the other hand, body or boogie boarding employs a much smaller board, especially suitable for smaller children. This activity is typically confined to the safe swimming area, offering a secure and enjoyable experience.
In essence, whether you choose the exhilarating ride of surfing or the family-friendly fun of body/boogie boarding, Atlantic Pursuits ensures a memorable aquatic adventure tailored to your preferences.
Why opt for Atlantic Pursuits?
Owner Sam Roberts: a 30-year Outdoor Expert:
With over three decades of experience, Sam Roberts is a seasoned trainer in surf life-saving and served as an RNLI helmsman for 20 years. His expertise as an excellent waterman is dedicated to delivering enjoyable, safe, and informative sessions.
Exclusive Small Groups/Private Family Experience:
Enjoy a session with just 6-8 people, ensuring a more personalized and intimate setting.
Premium Equipment:
Our equipment is top-notch, updated annually. Wetsuits, surfboards, and bodyboards are all in excellent condition, sourced from reputable providers such as Gul, Sola, and C-Skins.
Maximized Water Time:
Our groups prioritize time in the water, ensuring you make the most of your session. Informative introductions and warm-ups are concise, allowing you to fully enjoy your time.
Safety First:
Owner Sam Roberts: a 30-year Outdoor Expert:
With over three decades of experience, Sam Roberts is a seasoned trainer in surf life-saving and served as an RNLI helmsman for 20 years. His expertise as an excellent waterman is dedicated to delivering enjoyable, safe, and informative sessions.
For All Ages:
This activity is suitable for everyone, starting from the minimum age of 5. Age is no barrier—whether you’re 60 or 6, this is an exciting and inclusive activity for all.
Easiglide Segway
Easiglide Segway
Welcome to Easiglide Bude Segway Experience
Looking for a unique adventure? Come and put your skills to the test on our two-wheeled Segway experience!
Located in the picturesque coastal town of Bude, our Segway adventure offers breathtaking scenery, from sea views to rolling countryside, and you might even spot some alpacas!
Segwaying is fantastic fun for the entire family, from the little ones (7+) to nan and grandad!
Don’t worry if you haven’t tried it before—show no fear. Our instructor will guide you through the basics, and you’ll be cruising around on two wheels in no time. We guarantee you’ll be hooked and eager for more!
We also accommodate larger groups, so if you have a birthday party or special event approaching, give us a call, secure your slot, and let us provide the entertainment!
What are you waiting for?
Book your Segway experience now and dive into some serious fun!
Coasteering with Freewave Surf Academy
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.
Tamar Lakes
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 whatever age. Activities including walking, canoeing, cycling, fishing, kayaking, rowing, SUP, sailing and windsurfing. You can even extend your stay and make the most of the excellent camping facilities on site.
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 launch your own.
- 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.