Holiday Ideas for Your Visit to Woodlands Manor Farm

All in Bude are super proud that Summerleaze Beach, has been celebrated as one of the top 50 beaches in the UK by The Times newspaper. As locals we know how great the beach is, it has everything you need – sandy expanse, rock-pools, Sea Pool, unique sea canal, great surf schools, cafes, restaurant’s and the town center a stones throw away. 

Its no wonder The Times highlighting its exceptional appeal among the nation’s coastal gems. This recognition confirms the beach’s combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and excellent facilities that make it a standout destination for your holiday, whatever the season.

Summerleaze Beach

Nestled close to the town center of Bude, Summerleaze Beach offers an expansive sandy shore that is perfect for a variety of activities. The beach is renowned for its iconic Bude Sea Pool, a semi-natural tidal pool that provides a safe and unique swimming experience regardless of the ocean’s conditions. This pool, built into the rocks at the southern end of the beach, is a favourite spot for both locals and visitors, offering a sheltered environment for swimmers of all ages.

Summerleaze Beach is also a haven for surfers, with its year-round waves attracting enthusiasts from far and wide. Designated areas ensure the safety of both surfers and swimmers, making it an ideal location for water sports. The beach’s amenities include a large car park, restrooms, a café, and beach shops, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Accessibility is a key feature, with facilities such as a Changing Places toilet and beach sand wheelchairs available to ensure everyone can enjoy the coastal beauty.

Families particularly enjoy Summerleaze Beach for its gently sloping shoreline, making it safe for children to paddle and play whatever the tide is doing.

The beach is dog-friendly, though there are seasonal restrictions on leads, and it boasts a series of charming beach huts that can be hired for the day.

In addition to the beach itself, the surrounding area of Bude offers plenty to explore. The Bude Breakwater and scenic sand dunes provide excellent opportunities for walking and wildlife observation. The town of Bude is known for its vibrant community, with a range of dining options, shops, and cultural activities that add to the charm of visiting Summerleaze Beach.

Other Beaches in Bude

Crooklets Beach

Crooklets Beach

Just a short walk north of Summerleaze, Crooklets Beach is another gem in Bude’s coastal offerings. Known as the “Surfing Beach,” Crooklets boasts more rugged conditions that appeal to experienced surfers. The beach has excellent facilities, including a  two fabulous cafés, toilets, and ample parking. During the summer, lifeguards ensure safety, making it a great spot for families and surfers alike.

Sandymouth Beach

Sandymouth Beach

Located a few miles north of Bude and a local beach to Woodlands Manor Farm, Sandymouth Beach is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, extensive rock pools, and impressive stretches of sand. Managed by the National Trust, this beach offers a more secluded and natural experience. The beach is accessed via a steep path, adding to its wild and untouched appeal. Facilities include a seasonal café and toilets, making it a fantastic spot for a day trip.

Duckpool Beach

Duckpool Beach, Near Woodlands Manor Farm

Duckpool is the closest beach to our luxury holiday cottages and you can drive there in under 5 minutes. This remote beach enjoys some amazing surroundings, including many rock pools and the 100 metre high Steeple Point Cliff which is a truly imposing feature. Please note this wild beach does not have coast guards so please be careful entering the water and don’t swim out of your depth.

Widemouth Bay

Widemouth Bay seaview from cliff

A popular destination for both locals and tourists, Widemouth Bay lies just south of Bude. This expansive beach is ideal for families, surfers, and rock pool enthusiasts. With its wide sandy shores and reliable surf, Widemouth Bay caters to a variety of activities. The beach has excellent amenities, including several cafés, toilets, and surf schools. It also offers good accessibility, with dedicated parking areas close to the beach.

Northcott Mouth

Northcott Beach

For those seeking a quieter and more rugged beach experience, Northcott Mouth is the perfect choice. Located to the north of Bude, this beach is characterized by its rocky landscape and extensive rock pools, making it a haven for explorers and nature lovers. The beach is less commercialized, offering a more tranquil and natural setting. It is ideal for walking, picnicking, and exploring the rich marine life in the rock pools.

Beach Safety and Rip Tides

When visiting any beach, safety should always be a top priority, At Bude, like all top attractions, accidents do happen. Luckily we have amazing life guards and life savers, but we would much rather everyone in Bude and particularly our guests at Woodlands Manor Farm stay safe.

Rip tides, which are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water, can pose a significant risk to swimmers. These currents can quickly pull swimmers out to sea, making them one of the most dangerous natural hazards at the beach.

How to Stay Safe

1. Swim Where Lifeguards Advise: Always swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present. They are trained to spot rip tides and can provide immediate assistance if needed.
2. Understand Rip Tides: Educate yourself about rip tides. They are usually identifiable by a channel of churning, choppy water, a difference in water color, or a line of seaweed or debris moving steadily seaward.
3. Follow Safety Signs: Pay attention to warning signs and flags. Red flags indicate that the water is dangerous and swimming is prohibited.
4. If Caught in a Rip Tide: Stay calm. Don’t try to swim directly against the current. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to the beach at an angle.
5. Float to Survive: If you find yourself caught in a rip tide and are unable to swim out, try to float on your back to conserve energy and keep your airway clear. Signal for help if possible.
6. Stay Informed: Check local weather and sea conditions before heading to the beach. Local lifeguards and beach websites often provide updates on water safety.

In Bude, the RNLI provides seasonal lifeguard services at popular beaches like Summerleaze and Crooklets, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the water with greater peace of mind. Always heed their advice and instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience.

Conclusion

Bude’s beaches, from the bustling Summerleaze to the serene Northcott Mouth, offer a diverse array of experiences for visitors. Each beach has its unique charm, ensuring that whether you’re a surfer, a family, or someone looking to explore nature, Bude has the perfect coastal spot for you. This recognition from The Times highlights the exceptional quality and variety of Bude’s beaches, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers.

For more information, you can visit Visit Bude or  (Visit Bude | Holidays in Cornwall).

Woodlands Manor Farm

Woodlands Manor farm is the perfect location for your holiday. We have seven holiday cottages, (sleep from 2 – 12) and two glamping yurts (sleep 4) set within the Coombe Valley, Bude. We welcome families, large groups, small groups, walkers, dog lovers and romantic couples. We are proud of our facilities that include – indoor swimming pool, games room, playing field, woodlands, feed the animal experience, pony experience and lots more.