Bude is ideally located for those who want to explore Cornwall and North Devon. Just a few miles south are the Historic Harbour villages of Boscastle and Tintagel (with its legends of King Arthur). Fans of Doc Martin can see many of the locations used in the series at Port Isaac. Go North into Devon and you will find unspoilt and rugged coastline with beautiful villages such as Clovelly. For walkers there are many coastal walks as well as more rugged terrain on Bodmin and Dartmoor. If you seek a culinary treat why not head to Padstow, home to TV Chef Rick Stein’s now famous fish restaurant (book early) and for those seeking a special day out there are boat and helicopter trips to Lundy Island.

Bird Watching

On the opposite side of the canal is a bird watching hide, which overlooks the nature reserve. There are also managed reserves further inland.
www.swlakestrust.org.uk

Boating

Bude canal is perfect for canoes and kayaks and if our boat is too small to accommodate your whole party, there is boat hire available on the canal (near the sea lock) during much of the year.

Cycling and Walking

• The coast path is great for walkers and a nice challenge for runners.
• Those looking for a more level walk will enjoy the canal towpath, which stretches for approx 2 miles. If you follow this to where it currently stops at the A39 there is a café offering light refreshments. Alternatively you can branch off across the Nature reserve towards the river and back towards Bude or look for one or two footpaths across the fields and go exploring further away.
• There are various length walks which are documented in the Tourist information guide. Some local and some further afield. These guides can be purchased for a small fee from the Tourist Infomation Office.
• 1hrs drive away is the Camal trail which runs between Bodmin and Padstow, good for walking and cycling.
• On the opposite bank of the canal is a cycling path which takes you along the tow path and over the river into town.
• Eating and Evening Entertainment
• In addition to the many pubs, bars and restaurants in the town you will also find a nightclub and amusement arcade.

Fishing

Coarse fishing is permitted on Bude Canal (Closed season 1st April to 31st May). The canal is stocked with carp, tench, rudd, perch and bream. Permits may be obtained from the Bailiff who patrols the canal bank.

Golf

Bude has an 18 hole course at the top of the town. The course welcomes visitors and has special offers throughout the year. See www.budegolf.co.uk
For the less experienced or more casual golfer there is a 9 hole course at Ivy leaf, just outside Bude. See www.ivyleafgolf.com

Indoor Leisure

Bude’s Harlequin Centre next to the swimming pool has a bowling alley and bar. Most nights you can purchase light snacks and meals. There is also a very large indoor ball park for children.

Horse Riding

The nearest riding stables are a few minutes walk from our home at www.efforddown.co.uk.
Less than an hour’s drive away you will also find good riding stables on Dartmoor.

Mini Golf and Tennis

There are municipal Tennis courts and mini golf near to Summerleaze beach; it is often possible to just turn up, pay and play.

Museum

For those interested in finding out about Bude’s history, there is a small well stocked museum a short walk from The Old Laundry on the upper canal wharf by Summerleaze beach.

Swimming

There is a large sea pool on Summerleaze beach but for less hardy souls there is Bude Leisure pool with waves and tube.

Surfing, Body and Paddle boarding

These are very popular in Cornwall and you are likely to see boarders on the canal and in the sea all year round. Cornwall are trying to discourage the use of cheap boards which break quickly and end up in land fill. You can buy good quality boards and get lots of advice in local surf shops, along with wetsuits for all ages.

Tourist Information

Bude has a large Tourist Information Centre situated across the canal from The Old Laundry. Here guests will find information on Cornwall and Devon’s many attractions. We also have a number of leaflets in the house for your reference.