Family Holiday Cottages North Cornwall

Holiday Ideas for Woodlands Manor Farm – Bude 

The Summer holiday season will be here before you know it, so here are a few of our favorite things to do when staying at Woodlands Manor Farm,  Bude. Hope you have fun making a short list!

Walking

We are extremely lucky as our Bude holiday cottages and glamping yurts are situated just 2 miles from the coast of Cornwall, and the famous South West Coast path that starts at Minehead, in Somerset, and ends at Studland, in Dorset.

You can walk from our land, down through Combe Valley (AONB) to Duckpool Cove and we are always more than happy to pick up / drop off walkers, should you wish to leave your car at your holiday cottage.

You can also walk around our land, which is just one of the reasons we think our holiday cottage and yurt accommodation is amongst the best in Cornwall.

Beaches

There are so many beaches to choose from close to the farm in North Cornwall. Here are just a few of our favourites and you can also check out our latest blog for a detailed run-down of the best beaches.

Duckpool – Our nearest beach at just 2 miles away from the cottages at Woodlands Manor Farm. It is a very natural and wild cove and, although swimming is not recommended, the surf is good for experienced surfers.

Duckpool is favoured by many as a quiet retreat away from it all and offers spectacular scenery whatever the weather.

Sandymouth – Owned by the National Trust, this is about 3 miles from us. A huge sandy beach, as the name implies! Car parking and café on site.

Summerleaze –  One of two town beaches in Bude. A very wide beach with plenty of sand and a seawater swimming pool. Beach huts, cafés and a good size car park.

Widemouth Bay  – Pronounced ‘Widmuth’, the Bay is 3 miles south of Bude and offers 2 stunning beaches stretching approx 1.5 miles. Excellent facilities, with a number of surf schools.

Villages and Towns

Bude –  located just 6 miles south of us, right on the coast. Bude is a mix of contemporary and old-fashioned charm. There are plenty of unique and locally-owned shops and a wide selection of individual restaurants, cafés and pubs to suit everyone’s budget and taste. Ensure you make time to stroll along the canal, as it has one of only two working lock gates opening straight into the sea in the whole of Britain.

Also, Bude boasts not only one but two beaches! Crooklets is perfect for surfers and Summerleaze is perfect for families. The golf club is located overlooking Bude, with glorious views out to sea. The links course will give even the experienced golfer a challenging round! And there are many amazing restaurants to sample – find out more in our Bude food blog

Clovelly –  Nestled along the rugged coastline of North Devon, Clovelly is a picturesque fishing village renowned for its steep cobbled streets and timeless charm. Its quaint cottages, hugging the cliffside, offer stunning views of the Bristol Channel. Clovelly is famously car-free, with transportation relying on donkeys and sledges. Visitors can explore its narrow lanes, visit the Clovelly Court Gardens, or relax on its pebbled beach.

Hartland – Hartland, located in North Devon, is known for its dramatic coastline, wild landscapes, and rich history. The village itself is small but boasts a striking 12th-century abbey, Hartland Abbey, which sits amidst beautiful gardens and woodland. The surrounding area offers opportunities for coastal walks along the Hartland Peninsula, exploring secluded coves, and discovering the remnants of historic shipwrecks along the rugged shoreline.

Once a month, on the first Sunday of the month, there is a great farmers market, so keep an eye out on Facebook as to the stall holders and head to the Parish Hall, Hartland from 10 – 1. 

Boscastle – Boscastle is a charming village nestled within a deep valley on the North Cornwall coast. Famous for its natural harbor and stunning coastal scenery, Boscastle is a popular destination for hikers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. The village is home to quaint cottages, traditional pubs, and the fascinating Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, which explores the area’s mystical past. Visitors can also enjoy walks along the South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.

Crackington Haven – Tucked away on the North Cornwall coast, Crackington Haven is a hidden gem known for its rugged beauty and secluded beach. Surrounded by towering cliffs and rolling countryside, the village offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. Crackington Haven is popular with surfers, walkers, and beachcombers, who come to explore its sandy shores, dramatic rock formations, and scenic coastal paths.

Kilkhampton – The nearest village to our holiday cottages and has a small range of shops including Co-op and a pizza takeaway. And the little pig cafe that makes the best breakfast around. Kilk – as it is known to the locals, also has 2 pubs: The London Inn and The New Inn. Both offer local ales and home-cooked food.

Instow – Situated on the estuary of the River Torridge, opposite Appledore, Instow is a charming village in North Devon known for its stunning views across the water and its laid-back atmosphere. The village boasts a long sandy beach, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying panoramic sunsets over the estuary. Instow is also popular for water sports such as kite surfing and paddleboarding, and its waterfront pubs and cafes offer the perfect spot to relax and enjoy local seafood while watching the boats go by. With its peaceful ambiance and scenic surroundings, Instow is a hidden gem for visitors seeking a tranquil retreat in North Devon.

Tintagel –  Perched on the rugged North Cornwall coast, Tintagel is a historic village steeped in myth and legend, best known for its association with the legendary King Arthur. The village is dominated by the ruins of Tintagel Castle, which sits dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the sea and is believed by many to be the birthplace of King Arthur. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, which date back to the medieval period, and discover its fascinating history through interactive exhibitions and guided tours. Tintagel also offers picturesque coastal walks, including the Tintagel to Trebarwith Strand trail, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the chance to explore secluded coves and rock pools. With its mystical atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Tintagel is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, mythology, and the beauty of the North Cornwall coast.

Visit Tintagel Web for more details www.tintagelweb.co.uk

Pubs

The Bush Inn, located in Morwenstow, and The Old Smithy in Welcombe are both traditional pubs filled to the brim with character and charm.

The Bush Inn, nestled in the picturesque village of Morwenstow, exudes a rustic charm that attracts locals and visitors alike. It offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, where you can enjoy a selection of classic pub food and local brews.

The Smithy in Welcombe offers a unique dining experience in a converted blacksmith’s forge. This historic building has been lovingly restored, preserving its original features while adding modern comforts. Again you can expect great food and drink and a warm welcome.

The Preston Gate Inn is another great pub in Bude that offers fabulous food and drink. Its well worth a visit any time of year.

Restaurants

Bude and the surrounding area has an amazing range of beach side restaurants, fine dining, quality pub food and kid friendly restaurants too.

Check out our latest blog for our personal recommendations.

Craft and Art Activities – Bude 

There are a wide range of artists and studios around Bude and the surrounding area. Here are just a couple of examples of our favourites.

Wood Turning at Hide Studio – Fancy something totally unique. The fabulous Hide Studio is offering courses in turning “Green” wood. You’ll be taught at your own pace by Rich Inight, who has been a woodworker for 30+ years. Half and full-day courses available. For more information email – info@thehidestudiocornwall.co.uk or call 07743 389320

Local artist Hannah Jenkinson has a unique studio with a sea view near Bude. Hannah holds art workshops in this stunning location throughout the year and can be contacted on: 01288 331151 or 233930. 

Welcombe Pottery also have an amazing studio and shop that is well worth a visit. The also hold regular workshops if you fancy learning a new skill.

Family Attractions

The Big Sheep

A great day out for the whole family. Lots of activities ranging from sheep races, pony rides, indoor and outdoor play areas, garden centre and high ropes course – something for young and old alike. Visit their website for more details –www.thebigsheep.co.uk

The Milky Way

Excellent adventure park with indoor and outdoor activities. It is also the home of Devon’s longest, fastest and highest roller coaster. Visit their website –www.themilkyway.co.uk

The North Devon Wake Park

North Devon Wake Park is one of the largest watersports centres in the South West! Offering Wakeboarding, Aquaparks, Ringo rides, Paddleboarding and open water swimming

https://www.northdevonwakepark.co.uk/

Monster Slip and Slide

Amazing summer fun – every summer the slip and slide comes to Bude. Use the free super-fast bodyboards and inflatable rings to launch yourself off our Monster ramp and get yourself flying down the 360ft long, Monster of a slide! Kids under 4 even slide for free! https://monsterslipandslide.com/

Adventure Bude

Adventure Bude has a wealth of facilities at its disposal. These range from the on-site facilities which are second to none to the off-site facilities just a stones throw from the Centre.  You really are spoilt for choice – surfing, 60ft multi-pitch climbing wall, bouldering facility, extensive high ropes course, a purpose-built extensive network of tunnels and chambers, astro-turfed sports area including 5 A-side football pitches and basketball court, kayaking, canoeing, and dragon boating activities.

https://adventure.uk.com/facilities.php

Skern Lodge

Based in Appledore, Skern Lodge have been delivering outdoor activities, experiential learning and development training since 1976. Fantastic range of activities on offer including absailing, archery, surfing, powerboating, kayaking, coastering, climbing,high ropes and lots more. There truly is something for everyone at Skern Lodge

https://www.skernlodge.com/

Surfing and lots more outdoor activities

You are absolutely spoilt for choice in Bude when it comes to watersports. There are many surf schools offering surfing, paddle boarding and coasteering opportunities – check out our blog on the best of the best or ring us directly for some advice.

Read our blog for a summary of the best schools – 

Cinema

The latest release kicks off when you are on holiday. Never fear as we have an amazing independent cinema in Bude.

https://www.rebelcinema.co.uk/

The Venue

Bude offers a large indoor soft play and ten-pin bowling at the Venue. https://thevenuebude.co.uk/