Image shared for Widemouth Bay to Bude Coastal and Canal
Coastal Circular

Widemouth Bay to Bude Coastal and Canal

Cornwall

Distance
6.7 mi
Est. time
3h
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

This walk is a cracking introduction to North Cornwall’s coastline: big Atlantic views, proper sea air, and a gentle finish back into Bude along the historic canal. It’s varied without being hard work, which makes it ideal if you want something scenic but forgiving.

Starting at Widemouth Bay, you follow the South West Coast Path north. The first section feels wild and exposed in the best way - cliffs dropping straight into the ocean, constant movement in the surf below, and that unmistakable roar of the Atlantic when there’s swell running. It’s a popular stretch, but it never feels cramped, especially outside peak summer.

The path itself is clear and well-maintained, with a few ups and downs that keep it interesting without tipping into thigh-burner territory. You’ll pass quiet coves and headlands, with plenty of natural stopping points if you want to soak in the view or watch surfers working the breaks below.

As you approach Bude, the character of the walk shifts. The coastline softens, the town comes into view, and you transition inland to pick up the Bude Canal. This final stretch is flat, calm, and almost meditative - a complete contrast to the exposed cliffs earlier on. It’s a lovely decompression zone after the coast, especially if the wind’s been lively.

The canal path leads you gently back into town, past waterfowl, boats, and the odd paddleboarder, finishing close to cafés, pubs, and the beach - ideal timing for a coffee, lunch, or a well-earned pint.

Walk details

County
Cornwall
Main location
Widemouth Bay
Nearby towns
Widemouth Bay , Bude
Walk type
Circular
Category
Coastal
Distance
6.7 mi (10.8 km)
Est. time
3h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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Along the route

7 places
Guidepost
Navigation · 1.7 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 3.3 mi along
Monument
Historic sites · 3.3 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 3.4 mi along
Information
Navigation · 5.0 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 5.0 mi along
Information
Navigation · 5.1 mi along

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