Bude attractions

Holsworthy Gold Panning – The only real Gold Panning Experience in the South West!
Join us for an exciting gold panning adventure at our beautiful stream near Holsworthy!
Devon and Cornwall are well known for their rich mineral deposits. This includes GOLD in the hills near Holsworthy!

Here’s how your prospecting adventure will look :-
A short walk down to the panning station next to the stream.
A fun demonstration and equipment distribution.
1 hour of fun gold panning in the stream!
Return equipment to the panning station.
Examine and share your finds with the group.
What might you find?
Fools Gold (Pyrite)
Bits of Quartz sometimes with crystals
Pretty Sandstones with Mica crystals
Maybe if you are lucky – even some real Gold?!?

After your Gold Panning Adventure
Head to our picnic area to relax and wonder about ‘The gold in them hills!’

Could this be the start of your prospecting journey?

Join The Devon Gold Rush and make some Golden Memories!

Fantastic experience
Jul 2023 • Family
This was a fantastic experience and Paul is so knowledgeable and friendly . My 2 boys 7yrs & 15yrs have additional needs and he won them over . As a family we absolutely loved the experience , didn’t feel rushed and was made to feel very welcome . I would highly recommend this experience , it’s worth going just to see the beautiful surroundings/settings . We learnt so much !

Coasteering with Saltwater Safari

Embark on an exhilarating coasteering adventure with Saltwater Safari, tailored exclusively for you. Simply gear up in a wetsuit, buoyancy aid, safety helmet, and old trainers, and immerse yourself in the thrill of scrambling, climbing, swimming, grinning, and cliff jumping along Cornwall’s breathtaking rocky coastline.

Saltwater Safari coasteering activities are conducted as private sessions, ensuring a personalized experience just for you. Whether you’re seeking a unique family bonding experience in a supportive setting or an adventurous outing with friends, Saltwater Safari has you covered.

“Although jumping is optional, the majority find it hard to resist the excitement!”

To prepare for an invigorating coasteering experience with Saltwater Safari. You’ll be equipped with everything you need, including a winter wetsuit, buoyancy aid, and safety helmet.

Just bring along your swimmers, some old trainers or winter wet suit boots, boardshorts if you have them, suncream for your face, a towel for convenient roadside changing, and warm clothes to change into for post-coasteering comfort.

Saltwater Safari happily accommodates children for coasteering, but request that an adult joins in to share the adventure together. Get ready for an unforgettable coasteering experience.

Discover the joy of exclusive experiences with Saltwater Safari. All our activities are tailored as private sessions Just For You, providing the ideal opportunity to craft shared memories with family and friends. These moments will stay with you, ensuring your holiday lives on in your stories long after you’ve returned home!

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.

A garden full of inspiration

Set in a beautiful valley in the heart of North Devon between two National Parks, RHS Rosemoor is a 65 acre haven for biodiversity and wildlife has something for everyone.

A feast for the senses

Explore their famous ‘garden rooms’, each themed to celebrate the seasons in different planting styles and designs, where the plants are always the star.

Luxuriate in the scent of over 250 rose varieties in two dedicated gardens, at their fragrant peak in June.

Experience a blaze of reds, oranges and yellows in the Hot Garden with swathes of vibrant plants or unwind in the soothing pastels and blues of the Cool Garden, a tranquil oasis with a teardrop-shaped pond.

Discover trees from every continent of the Northern Hemisphere, see their Devon orchard with rare heritage apple trees or be inspired by the range of delectable edibles grown in the Fruit and Vegetable Garden.

Families can let their imaginations run wild exploring woodland walks – try your hand at den making or follow the leaf rubbing trail!

A hive of activity

The garden comes alive with craft fairs, workshops, live music and more throughout the year, with something to do every school holiday. Join a creative class, improve your gardening knowledge at one of the regular courses or just sit back and be entertained! Relish the delights of the Festival of Flavours, get nostalgic at the Vintage weekend or just get festive at the annual Glow illuminations.

Savour local flavours

Taste produce from Rosemoor’s own garden and enjoy locally-sourced delicacies carefully prepared on site in a range of meal and snack options, or treat yourself to a delicious cream tea with garden views.

Green shopping

They have plants for any space: big, small or indoors and offer a 5-year guarantee on hardy plants. Local artisan produce and crafts, horticultural and lifestyle books, gifts and sustainable homeware also available.

Scott, the Head Surf Coach, at Bude Surfing Experience whose extensive experience in the industry leads our team of highly-qualified instructors. Each member of our coaching team is carefully selected to align with our core values of ensuring both fun and safety at all times. We take pride in our commitment to excellence, with every instructor holding DBS checks, Safeguarding training, and certifications in Lifeguarding and Surf Coaching. Rest assured, we are fully insured and endorsed by Surfing England.

Whether you’re a complete beginner, an intermediate surfer, or someone seeking a few expert tips, we are dedicated to helping you progress swiftly and safely on one of Cornwall’s finest surfing destinations. Summerleaze Beach, one of our chosen locations, is not only dog-friendly but also perfect for families, featuring the unique Bude Sea Pool.

DAILY GROUP SESSIONS
Embark on our daily 2.5-hour group sessions tailored for all ages and abilities, maintaining a minimum ratio of 1 instructor to 8 learners. The session cost includes all necessary equipment. Families with children under 8 are welcome, but we kindly ask for a non-surfing adult to accompany them—please arrange this at the time of booking.

PRIVATE / BESPOKE SESSIONS
Unlock a personalized surfing experience by booking a private lesson, where your dedicated surf instructor focuses exclusively on you and/or your family. Ideal for families with small children eager to surf together, as well as individuals and couples seeking accelerated progress.

PEAK SEASON (July and August): Exclusive sunrise and sunset sessions only.

OFF-PEAK: Enjoy the flexibility of choosing your preferred timing.

We cater to diverse private group bookings, including stag and hen parties, corporate and team-building events, school, scout, and university groups, as well as birthday parties (for all ages over 8). Everyone is welcome for surf, SUP, and bodyboard sessions.

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.

Set out on an adventure at the Vale of Avalon where there’s something for every member of the family. From exciting den building and exploring Arthur’s stone to imaginative play in the wooden fort, children will be thoroughly entertained.

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, meander through the serene Muse Garden or enjoy a leisurely 500m stroll through the fields, orchard, and riverside trail, where you’ll discover the enchanting Lady Falmouth’s Secret Garden.

What You Can Explore & Experience:

Witness the historic Camlann Battlefield
Admire the 6th-century inscribed ‘Ogham’ Stone (also known as King Arthur’s Grave)
Dive into history at our Indoor Exhibition
Delight in the fragrant blooms of Lady Falmouth’s Secret Garden (18th century)
Relax in the picturesque ‘Muse Garden’
Explore the newly planted orchard
Discover the remains of a 13th-century longhouse
Observe wildlife thriving in its natural habitat
Wander the 500m woodland trail alongside the river
Let creativity flourish with den building using trees and twigs
Appreciate the newly planted flower beds
Enjoy family time in the dedicated children’s play area
Indulge in homemade tea & cake at the tearoom
Find a special memento in the charming gift shop

The Vale of Avalon is thrilled to inform you that they are a carbon-neutral, family-run small business dedicated to sustainability. On site is a liscensed Tea Room, free parking for both coaches and cars. Dogs are very welcome, no need to book ahead. Season tickets available for repeat visits.

While Lundy Island may only stretch three miles in length and half a mile wide, its compact size belies the wealth of experiences it offers day-trippers. With over 4,000 years of human history, brought to life by 42 scheduled monuments and a collection of listed buildings, the island is a treasure trove of heritage. Its remote location fosters a unique habitat for wildlife, often likened to the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. All of this unfolds against a backdrop of rugged natural beauty, creating a paradise for walkers.

Many day visitors embark on the journey to Lundy aboard the MS Oldenburg, the island’s own ferry and supply ship. This graceful vessel, built in 1958, retains much of its original charm with brass and wooden fittings. It boasts comfortable heated saloons, a bar, buffet, gift shop, and information desk. On sunny days, ample deck space invites passengers to enjoy the scenic views, and lucky travellers may even encounter a playful pod of dolphins trailing the ship.

The MS Oldenburg sails at least three times weekly from either Bideford or Ilfracombe, with the crossing taking approximately two hours each way. This allows between four and six hours to explore the island, depending on the chosen travel day.

Given the island’s abundance of attractions, it’s unlikely that a single visit will suffice. Weather often dictates the day’s activities—if the wind blows easterly, head west, and vice versa. And even on rainy days, there’s plenty to see and do in and around the Tavern.

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!

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.

Experience the thrill of the Monster Slip And Slide Bude, a 4-lane, 360FT long attraction located in North Cornwall, close to the picturesque town of Bude. Just 4 minutes from the breathtaking beaches of Widemouth Bay,  Monster Slip And Slide Bude awaits!

Complimentary super-fast bodyboards and inflatable rings allow you to launch yourself off the Monster ramp and zip down the exhilarating 360ft slide! Plus, children aged 4 and under slide for free!

No need to worry about hunger or thirst! The Monster Munch Team has you covered with a variety of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and tempting ice creams to keep you energized while you Slip and Slide!

Rent the slip and slide exclusively for an epic party! Whether it’s a birthday bash, stag or hen do, kids club event, or corporate/staff party, make it unforgettable with your own private session on the slide.

Customer reviews
“What a fantastic experience for the whole family. We went as a family of five – children age ranges from 3-12. Well organised and plenty of opportunities to go on the slides. What we loved most was the variation from going down the slide, on your own, body board, single ring or double ring which sat four!”

“What a fun way to spend an afternoon! 3 adults and 2 children had a fantastic time from start to finish. Check in was quick and easy, the safety talk was brief but thorough and the amount of time on the slides was just right. We loved the fact you could choose single rings, double rings, body boards or just yourself to go down the slides. We tried everything and enjoyed them all!”