The best walks in Bude

This circular walk starts and finishes at the Rectory Farm Tea Rooms.  The route uses the South West Coast Path and inland footpaths and tracks.  You’ll be treated to a combination of breathtaking dramatic coastal cliff views, Lundy Island (on a clear day) and the quiet solitude of farmland, mostly unchanged since the building of the agrarian manor houses which dot the area.

Bude Marshes is a countryside gem that reaches into the heart of Bude.  Situated alongside the canal and behind the Bude Tourist Information Centre, it attained recognition as a Local Nature Reserve in 1983, marking the first of its kind in Cornwall!  It offers an idyllic setting for a leisurely flat, traffic-free stroll on a tarmac surface amidst nature’s beauty.  Not only is it significant to Bude’s wildlife conservation efforts but it stands as a vital cornerstone of the Bude Flood Prevention Scheme.

Bude Marshes Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of flora and fauna.  Among the species commonly spotted in the reserve kingfishers, herons, geese and ducks, which frequent the wetland habitats.  You may also encounter small mammals like otters, voles and shrews, as well as amphibians like frogs and toads, particularly around the marshy areas.  In addition, the reserve supports a variety of plant life, including reeds, rushes, and sedges, as well as wildflowers that bloom throughout the seasons.

Explore three of Bude’s beaches, the Breakwater, the South West Coast Path and a shipwreck with this delightful and easy walk that unveils the natural beauty and coastal allure of Bude.

This scenic journey guides you from the Bude Canal Lock Gates, across Summerleaze Beach to Northcott Mouth, and back to Bude along the South West Coast Path.

You’ll experience the landscape from two perspectives – along the shore below the dramatic cliffs, and along the South West Coast Path looking down onto the beaches and across the distant headlands, as far as the eye can see.

Embark on a picturesque circular journey traversing the renowned South West Coast Path and meandering through inland footpaths and tracks.  This route unveils a tapestry of scenic wonders and cultural gems, include the awe-inspiring Church of St. Morwenna, renowned for its exquisite Norman architecture, the iconic Hawker’s Hut steeped in maritime history, the enchanting Tidna Valley, and the secluded beauty of Stanbury Mouth’s clandestine beach.

Introducing the Tamara Coast to Coast Way, a captivating 87-mile walking route that seamlessly connects the south and north coasts of Cornwall. Embark on a remarkable journey tracing the Tamar River from its origin in Plymouth to the rugged cliffs of Morwenstow, just north of Bude, where Cornwall meets Devon.

This well-marked trail offers a variety of experiences as it winds its way along the riverbanks, allowing walkers the option to traverse either the Cornish or Devonian sides at various points. Divided into seven manageable sections, each day’s walk offers its own unique charm, from expansive estuary views to tranquil ancient woodlands and meandering water-meadows steeped in Cornwall’s rich mining history.

Venture through lush farmland and follow the winding path of the historic Bude Canal before reaching the source of the Tamar River, where a newly erected marker stone awaits. The final stretch leads to the remote Marsland Mouth and its secluded beach, offering a picturesque end to your coastal journey.

Continuing along the South West Coast Path to Morwenstow, walkers are treated to breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast and the opportunity to explore Cornwall’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and World Heritage landscapes. For avid hikers, extending the adventure along the South West Coast Path to Land’s End and completing the Circuit of Cornwall is a tempting option.

Accessible by public transport and featuring sections suitable for varying abilities, the Tamara Coast to Coast Way promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture along its path. Whether you’re seeking panoramic vistas, cultural heritage, or simply the joy of exploration, this new walking route delivers on every front.

A picturesque circular walk starting from Crackington Haven car park, offering varied landscapes, including stunning coastal views, tranquil valleys, a secret beach (Strangles) and charming countryside scenery.  This walk is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful coastal adventure.

To reach Crackington Haven, take the 95 bus from Bude.  Alternatively, its a 20-minute drive from Bude.

An inspirational journey through the ancient woodland of Dizzard Point, a testament to Bude’s rich natural history dating back to prehistoric times. Explore the depths of this historic forest, where rare lichens flourish in the pristine air, and meander through hay meadows adorned with a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers and butterflies.

Parking is limited at Millook, but it is possile to get the 95 bus to Widemouth Bay and walk to the start point.

Embark on a journey through Bude’s stunning coastal landscapes and historic canal on this captivating walk, brimming with diverse scenery. Marvel at the sweeping panoramas on the South West Coast Path and walk along the historic Bude Canal, a remarkable relic of 19th century engineering.

This Bude WWII Heritage Trail is a guide around the town to some of the places used by the American troops who came here to train for the D-Day landings in 1944. When you come to each blue plaque you’ll find a QR code – scan these to hear stories of local people and narratives come to life!

This historically rich walk is filled with varied scenery and panoramic views. The level path follows the Bude Canal, a remarkable relic of 19th century engineering, to its terminal as a barge waterway.  The wide open views from the fields of Whalesborough overlooking Widemouth Bay and the rugged cliffline to the south are without doubt, breath-taking, especially when the surf pounds the coast.  Then there are the clifftops with their dramatic, geological formations, leading you to views overlooking Bude, its bay, and beyond to Hartland and Exmoor.

This captivating walk offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic splendor, making it a must-visit destination for any explorer.  The route traverses Ashbury Woods, where ancient trees whisper tales of centuries gone by.  Beneath the watchful gaze of the iron age fort, explore the rugged terrain and imagine the lives of those who once roamed these lands.  The path leads you to the evocative ruins of Penhallam Manor, a testament to the enduring legacy of times long past.  As you wander through this atmospheric site, let your imagination roam free, conjuring images of bygone eras.

Shoreline Triathlon

Since 1991, the Shoreline Triathlon has been a sporting highlight of late June/early July in Bude, starting from the stunning Summerleaze Beach. The event draws a diverse range of competitors, from first-time triathletes and beginners to seasoned national team athletes, making it a favourite for all skill levels.

Inspired by Bude’s natural beauty, we designed a course that perfectly showcases the local landscape. The open water swim takes place in the sheltered, high-tide bay at Summerleaze Beach, protected by the breakwater from the Atlantic swell. The cycling route is both fast and challenging, following the coast road from Bude towards Widemouth Bay, then looping back via the scenic A39. The run weaves through Bude’s charming town, along the canal towpath, and finishes with a dramatic return via Lynstone Road, culminating in a grand finale along the Strand and up Summerleaze Car Park.

What sets the Shoreline Triathlon apart is its welcoming atmosphere, unique commentator, and attention to detail. Participants enjoy great event T-shirts, medals for all finishers, and a variety of competition categories. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to the sport, it’s an event that keeps competitors coming back year after year.

With the fastest athletes completing the course in around an hour, and all participants finishing within two hours, it’s a thrilling and achievable challenge for everyone!