Surprisingly funky and fun
Bude... and all that jazz! This unassuming seaside town in Cornwall has been hosting a fine festival of New Orleans and traditional jazz in late summer for nearly three decades. Every pub, hotel and hall (and some outdoor venues too) gets in on the toe-tapping action.
Bude is a Cornish town full of surprises and contrasts. An almost old-fashioned air suggests family-friendly bucket and spade holidays... and yet, there is also a funky surfer vibe to Bude thanks to some spectacular beaches on this largely undeveloped stretch of the North Cornish coast.
There are plenty of activities from watersports to cycling, walking, horse-riding and fishing - and some lovely, safe, big beaches within walking distance of the town which make it a great place to visit in Cornwall for young families. And fear not foodies... artisan producers and talented chefs have helped the town up its game. So much so that it will hold its second Bude for Food festival in September 2015.
We love...
The quirky shops and the brilliant beaches. Bude evolved from a tiny fishing village to a thriving trading port in the mid-18th to 19th centuries. It then fell out of favour until the railway brought tourists. Although the trains are long gone, the tourists remain and find a warm welcome.
Don't miss...
Get into the holiday mood and hire a painted beach hut on Crooklets or Summerleaze beaches or rent a pedalo and travel under your own steam along the Bude Canal. Then you’ve earned your fish and chips supper!