The best walks in Bude
Welcome to our guide to walks and trails in Bude, your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of this beautiful coastal destination. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, our curated selection of walks and trails caters to all interests and abilities.
From the rugged cliffs of the South West Coast Path to the tranquil woodlands and scenic beachfront promenades, Bude offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences waiting to be discovered. Each walk is accompanied by route descriptions and difficulty levels, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable adventure for every visitor.
So lace up your walking shoes, grab your map, and embark on a journey of exploration and discovery through the breathtaking landscapes of Bude and its surrounding areas.
Bude Canal and Coast Path Circular Walk
Bude Canal and Coast Path Circular Walk
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.
The Tamara Way
The Tamara Way
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.
Crackington Haven to St Gennys
Crackington Haven to St Gennys
Explore the stunning coastal scenery surrounding Crackington Haven on this energetic circular walk, offering panoramic views, charming hamlets, and a visit to the historic St. Gennys Church.
Duckpool and Coombe Valley
Duckpool and Coombe Valley
A captivating journey meandering through footpaths and woodland. Starting at Duckpool, the walk takes you inland and delves into the Coombe Valley and the enchanting woodlands of Stowe.
Bude WWII Heritage Trail
Bude WWII Heritage Trail
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!