Bude Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bude, Cornwall with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best places to visit, hike, eat, stay and more in West Country.


Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Bude, Cornwall: Discover the Best of West Country

Bude, located in the picturesque region of West Country in Cornwall, UK, is a popular tourist destination known for its excellent surf beaches, marvelous coastal scenery, and historic landmarks. With a rich cultural heritage and a welcoming atmosphere, Bude makes for an ideal vacation spot for families, solo travelers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. This travel guide aims to provide you with all the essential information required to plan an unforgettable trip to Bude, Cornwall.

List of Places to Visit in Bude

1. Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Castle Heritage Centre: showcasing the history of Bude and the surrounding area through informative exhibits and artifacts.
  • Bude Canal and Barge: a tranquil canal walk that provides visitors with stunning views of the local area.
  • Efford Down House: a historic building that houses various exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events.

2. Natural Attractions of Bude: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bude Sea Pool: a natural swimming pool set in the rocks, providing an exhilarating swimming experience with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • South West Coast Path: a beautiful hiking trail that takes visitors along the cliffs, with spectacular views of the coastline.
  • Tintagel Castle: a stunning ruin steeped in history with incredible views of the sea and landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bude

  • The Camel Trail: an excellent 18-mile cycling and walking trail that takes visitors through picturesque Cornish countryside.
  • The Tarka Trail: a 180-mile long trail that runs through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Southwest England.
  • Bude Canal: a tranquil walking path, perfect for a leisurely stroll, that offers stunning views of the area.

Best Things to Do in Bude: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing: Bude is renowned for its surf beaches, and visitors can join a surf school to learn the basics and ride the waves.
  • Coasteering: an exciting adventure sport that involves jumping, climbing, and swimming around the cliffs and coastline.
  • Fishing: the nearby coastline offers excellent opportunities for a variety of fishing styles, from shore fishing to deep-sea angling.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bude

Day 1: Surfing lessons at Summerleaze Beach and a visit to the Bude Castle Heritage Centre.

Day 2: Hiking along the South West Coast Path to experience stunning views of the coastline.

Day 3: Exploring Efford Down House and attending a cultural event in the evening.

Day 4: A day trip to Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave to experience England’s fascinating history.

Day 5: Coasteering in the morning and relaxing at the Bude Sea Pool in the afternoon.

Day 6: Cycling along the Camel Trail and visiting the nearby small towns for a change of scenery.

Day 7: Shopping for souvenirs in the morning and spending the afternoon fishing at a nearby beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Bude

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish Pasty: traditional pastries filled with beef, potatoes, and onions, typically eaten as a snack or meal.
  • Fish and Chips: a British classic made with fresh, locally sourced fish and crispy batter served with fries and mushy peas.
  • Cream Tea: a light meal consisting of a pot of tea, scones, cream, and jam, perfect for an afternoon snack.

Local Beverages

  • Cornish Ales: made with locally grown hops and barley, Cornwall has a thriving craft beer scene with a range of ales and bitters.
  • Cornish Cider: produced from apples grown in the region’s orchards, the cider has a crisp, refreshing taste.

Where to Stay in Bude: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Falcon Hotel: a charming boutique hotel located in the center of town offering excellent accommodation and luxurious amenities.
  • Elements: a beachside guesthouse specializing in surf vacations, offering comfortable rooms, healthy meals, and outdoor activities.
  • Bude Backpackers: a budget-friendly hostel located close to the seafront, offering clean, cozy rooms with basic amenities.

What to Buy in Bude: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cornish fudge: made with butter, cream, and sugar, the locally made fudge is a delicious treat to take home.
  • Cornish pottery: high-quality, hand-crafted pottery that serves as a perfect reminder of your trip.
  • Cornish Hampers: a basket of locally made products like cheese, cider, and chutney, makes an excellent gift for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Bude

Bude is known for its friendly locals, relaxed atmosphere, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors are advised to be polite and respectful to the people and their traditions. The locals are known for their love of outdoor activities and food, and visitors are encouraged to participate and enjoy the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Bude

With its mild climate, Bude is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is sunny and warm, and the beaches are open to the public. The months of July and August are usually the busiest times to visit, with more crowds and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bude

Do:

  • Make the most of the beaches and outdoor activities.
  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Enjoy the delicious food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Leave litter on the beaches or hiking trails.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to the locals.
  • Forget to book attractions and accommodation in advance during peak season.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bude

Bude is a safe place to visit, but visitors should be aware of the dangers of the sea and cliffs. Visitors should always obey the warning signs, not swim alone, and follow the safety guidelines provided by local authorities.

Health in Bude

Bude has excellent medical facilities, including a hospital and general practice surgeries. Visitors can also seek medical advice and treatment in local pharmacies.

Getting to Bude: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bude

  • Newquay Airport: located 35 miles south of Bude, offering domestic and international flights.
  • Exeter Airport: located 58 miles east of Bude, offering domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Bude

  • Bude Bus Station: serving local and regional routes throughout Cornwall and Devon.
  • Exeter Bus Station: serving national and international routes with connections to Bude.

Other Options

  • Car rental: visitors can rent a car at the airport or in Bude town center to explore the nearby towns and countryside.
  • Taxi or private transfer: visitors can arrange for a private transfer or book a taxi from the airport or train station for a hassle-free journey.

How to Get Around in Bude

Bude is a small town, and most visitors prefer to walk or cycle to explore the local area. There is a regular bus service connecting the town center with nearby towns and villages. Visitors can also hire a car or take a taxi for more extensive journeys.

Where to Go Next from Bude: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tintagel Castle: a short drive from Bude, the ruins of this historic castle are a must-visit.
  • Eden Project: an educational and exciting visitor attraction, showcasing the world’s largest indoor rainforest.
  • Padstow: a charming harbor town famous for its seafood and traditional Cornish architecture.

Conclusion

As you can see, Bude, Cornwall, has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, surfing, cultural attractions, or a relaxing beach holiday, Bude has it all. Plan your trip to Bude using this comprehensive travel guide, and get ready to experience the best of West Country in England.

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