Walks & Guides

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 Quadrathlon Route

Bude Quadrathlon Route
Extreme trails

Bude Quadrathlon Route

Since 2002, the Awesome Foursome Quadrathlon has been an adrenaline-packed multi-sport race held every September, welcoming individuals, pairs, and relay teams. This challenging event has become a staple in both the British and European Quadrathlon calendars, often serving as a World Cup ranking event or hosting the European Short Course Championships.

Designed to showcase the unique geography of Bude, the race pushes athletes to their limits. It kicks off with an open water swim sheltered by Bude’s iconic breakwater. The cycling leg takes riders along breathtaking coastal hills, including the notorious 1-in-3 incline at Millook. Next, competitors navigate the serene waters of the Bude Canal for the kayaking portion. Finally, the race concludes with a scenic run along the canal towpath, merging onto the coastal path before returning to Bude.

With the fastest competitors completing the course in around 3 hours and most finishing within 4 hours, the Awesome Foursome is a true test of endurance, skill, and determination.

Bude WWII Heritage Trail

Bude WWII Heritage Trail
Accessible walks Circular walks

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!

Bude Three Beaches

Bude Three Beaches
Beach walks Circular walks Dog walks SWCP

Bude Three Beaches

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.

Bude Canal and Coast Path Circular Walk

Bude Canal and Coast Path Circular Walk
Circular walks Dog walks SWCP

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.

Morwenstow Cream Tea and Hawker's Hut

Morwenstow Cream Tea and Hawker's Hut
Circular walks Dog walks Drive for a walk SWCP Woodland walks

Morwenstow Cream Tea and Hawker's Hut

Embark on a leisurely clifftop stroll along the stunning coast at Morwenstow, where breath-taking views, historic landmarks, and abundant wildlife await. This gentle walk offers a perfect blend of natural beauty with lush valleys, farmland, heritage, and tranquil surroundings. Highlights including the beautiful Saxon-era church and the iconic Hawker’s Hut, once the refuge of the eccentric Rev. Hawker. Complete the walk with a Cornish Cream Tea at the 18th century Rectory Farm Tearooms.

Simple walking instructions are included, but we advise you use this route alongside the Ordnance Survey OS190 map.

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