Secret Season: Bude
Discover the cyan seas, canal bridges and brightly coloured beach huts of Bude, a lively town on the North Cornwall coast. With a laid back feel, strong sense of community and plenty of winter activities across its surf-ready seafront and picturesque canal, it’s an ideal spot for slowing down this Secret Season. Take a bracing dip in the iconic sea pool, warm up in the wood-fired sauna and find a fresh perspective on coastal living during the quieter months.
Discover:
- Maritime heritage and monuments
- Scenic coastal walks
- Swimming in Bude sea pool
- The best food and drink spots
- Where to shop
Activities
Sea pool dip
Join the local cold water swimmers for a dip in Bude’s historic sea pool, carved into the cliffs at Summerleaze Beach. Open year-round, the pool is managed by the Friends of Bude Sea Pool charity, and has dedicated changing areas. You’re bound to meet some friendly faces enjoying the cold water ‘high’ and sheltering from the wilder waves of the main beach.
Storm Tower (‘The Pepperpot’)
Bude’s maritime heritage is symbolized by the Storm Tower, perched on Compass Point overlooking the Atlantic. Originally built in the 1800s as a refuge for coastguards, this octagonal structure offers sweeping views and serves as a reminder of the town’s seafaring past.
Ocean Soul sauna
Unwind in the wood-fired Ocean Soul sauna, overlooking Crooklets Beach. Warm up after a cold water dip, sweat it out and feel the restorative benefits of sauna therapy.
The canal
Beyond the striking seafront you’ll find a quieter, calmer space along the canal. Admire the moored boats (and dine in one – The Barge), browse a selection of craft makers’ shops or sip coffee at The Olive Tree cafe & bistro.
Shopping
Bude’s bohemian high street is home to a variety of unique, independent shops:
A bohemian lifestyle boutique offering homeware, clothing, and gifts.
A quirky shop filled with art, crafts, and curiosities inspired by the Cornish coast.
If you’re looking to make your stay as sustainable as possible, this store offers plastic-free, eco-friendly local produce.
Tarquin’s Gin Tasting and Shop
Discover locally crafted gin with a tasting experience and pick up a bottle to take home.
Perfect for both hot coffee and beach essentials.
Food and drink
Bude’s dining scene offers something for every taste, with cosy cafés, hearty meals, and fine dining options:
Beach Cafés
Stop by Rosie’s Kitchen at Crooklets Beach for a relaxed bite, or warm up at Life’s a Beach café, serving shell-on prawns, grilled or battered fish and chips and daily specials with stunning views of Summerleaze Beach.
Head to Temple for stylish small plates on the rooftop terrace.
A cosy and welcoming micropub and smallest live music venue in Bude, selling ales from independent Cornish breweries and a great selection of Cornish wines, ciders & gins.
Discover Lynne’s versatile artwork and upcycled surfboard creations at this charming Bude gallery, or join one of her ‘painting and prosecco’ workshops.
Discover Bude out of season. Dip in the sea pool, explore the town’s heritage and savour local cuisine.
Stay for two free nights
Take advantage of our two free nights offer—book three or five nights in selected retreats and enjoy two extra nights free. Discover the charm of Bude at your own pace this Secret Season.
