Unique experiences in Bude

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.

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.

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.

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.

Immerse Yourself in Creativity at the Kitchen Front

At the Kitchen Front, our workshops are guided by professional and experienced illustrators and crafters who bring a wealth of expertise to every session.

Unleash your creativity as you explore various techniques such as splatter, print, and stencil under the expert guidance of our talented instructors. Our participants often surprise themselves by daring to try new methods, resulting in unique and personalized creations.

Beyond the joy of crafting, our workshops offer more than just fun—they provide a serene and tranquil experience. Many participants share that the immersive nature of the activities fosters a sense of calm and relaxation. The creative atmosphere at the Kitchen Front sets the stage for a truly unique and inspiring journey.

Discover a world of artistic possibilities with our diverse workshops:

Ceramic Kitchenware:
We believe in the fusion of practicality and beauty. Join us, and we will personally guide you in building your artistic confidence through illustration techniques. We firmly stand by the belief that everyone can do art, even if you think you can’t. Explore our extensive selection of practical bisque, ready for you to transform into unique pieces. Once glazed and fired, our kitchenware becomes not only functional but also dishwasher safe.

Stoneware Workshops:
Welcome to the world of stoneware at our workshops! What sets it apart? Stoneware, known for its robust nature compared to earthenware, introduces a unique dimension to your creations. Prepare to be captivated by the outcome, the resulting pieces are nothing short of stunning. Each creation boasts a unique beauty and fluidity that sets it apart.

In our dedicated stoneware workshops, your pieces undergo a separate firing process at exceptionally high temperatures, resulting in a vitrified surface that adds durability and character to your masterpieces.

Book Binding:
Unleash your imagination as you learn the art of creating beautifully bound books. Our workshop is a lovely introduction to book binding using the concertina technique.

Fabric Block Print:
Dive into the world of textile artistry and create unique patterns with fabric block printing. We will guide you through the fascinating process of creating a block print from wood, employing a variety of mark-making materials. You then choose from a diverse selection of practical items, including aprons, bags, T-shirts, and tea towels.

Sweet Indulgence: Elevate Your Experience with Homemade Cake and Tea

As a delightful bonus, each workshop with us includes a serving of our proper homemade cake accompanied by a steaming cup of tea or coffee. Picture yourself savoring these treats on our charming vintage china, adding an extra touch of nostalgia and elegance to your creative journey.

For private groups, the indulgence goes a step further—you get to choose the cake or opt for a delightful Cream Tea experience. Make every moment special with the perfect blend of creativity and culinary delight at our studio.

Beyond Workshops:

Cherish Little Hands and Feet:
At our studio, we go beyond workshops to create lasting memories. In the blink of an eye, your child grows so quickly, and it can be challenging to recall just how small they once were. The Kitchen Front is here to help you hold onto those precious memories. Capture precious moments with your little ones through personalized hand and footprints.

Take Creativity Home: Art Kits for Your Own Time
Introducing our Takeaway Home Art Kits—a creative escape right in the comfort of your space. If our workshop timings don’t align with your schedule or you prefer the freedom to create at your own pace, these kits are the perfect solution.

Our Art Kits are fully comprehensive, providing everything you need:

• A selection of vibrant paints
• Mark making tools including a straw, sponge, scratchy stick, and paint brushes
• Your choice of ceramic item from our extensive collection
• Unleash your artistic spirit at home, on your own terms, with our thoughtfully curated Art Kits.

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!

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.

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 !

Discover a vibrant array of high-quality theatre events in Bude, showcased across a diverse selection of unique open-air and indoor venues.

The lineup is carefully curated to delight and inspire. From alfresco performances under the open sky to intimate gatherings in cozy indoor settings, our events promise to captivate audiences of all tastes and interests.

Welcome to Ocean Soul Sauna, a mobile seaside retreat in Bude, Cornwall. Nestled by the beach, this wood-fired sauna offers a unique outdoor experience with breathtaking sea views through a panoramic half-moon window.

Whether you prefer solitude or the company of others, Ocean Soul Sauna accommodates your needs. Just steps from Crooklets Beach, this idyllic location comfortably hosts up to 8 people, making it perfect for intimate gatherings, families, friends, or special occasions. Embrace the tranquility and warmth of a seaside sauna for a rejuvenating experience.

This unique beachside wood sauna is an opportunity to relax and connect with the soothing ambiance of the sea.

Saunas offer a range of benefits, promoting overall well-being.

• Pain Relief: Saunas have been known to alleviate pain, providing relief for sore muscles and joints.
• Relaxation: The heat in saunas induces relaxation, helping to reduce stress and tension in both the body and mind.
• Positive Impact on Blood Pressure: Regular sauna use may contribute to a positive effect on blood pressure, promoting cardiovascular health.
• Mood Enhancement: Saunas can boost mood and contribute to a sense of well-being, thanks to the release of endorphins and the overall relaxation they provide.
• Mental Health: Saunas are associated with improved mental health, offering a tranquil space for relaxation and contemplation.
• Muscle and Joint Recovery: Saunas aid in muscle recovery, promoting flexibility and easing stiffness in joints.

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.

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.