Dog-Friendly Gwelmor ~ Widemouth Bay, Nr. Bude

Widemouth Bay

With Blue Flag Beach Award

There are hundreds of rock pools to explore at low tide in Widemouth Bay, a very long and open bay popular with families and surfers. Just 3 miles south of Bude, Widemouth Bay offers excellent conditions for surfing and bodyboarding, which is why many surf schools are located there.

Both the north and south ends of the bay have viewing areas with free parking so that you won't walk barefoot in the sand! The beach features a variety of peaks, breaking on sand or reef, producing heavy barreling or spilling waves. There is also the Black Rock landmark to be seen.

It is suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to experts. A high tide rock in the middle of the beach and a rock at Black Rock pose dangers. There are also rips nearby. When the season is busy, it can be crowded. Tides: Surfable at Mid to high tide. Wind: E/SE offshore.

Full lifeguard cover is from the 1st of May until the 26th of September. Weekend lifeguard cover in October April and full cover during October Half-Term. (2021)

Please note: Dogs are welcome throughout the year on the southern section of the beach (Black Rock). The northern part operates a seasonal dog ban between May 15th and September 30th (10 am-6 pm) (2021)

Sandymouth Bay

There are many beaches around this area, and, as you can see, they make ideal spots to exercise your dog; Sandymouth Bay is another example.

This National Trust beach is tidal, with pebbles and rocks lining the top, with sand becoming visible at low tide. Cliffs of twisted rock formed 300 million years ago create this awesome landscape with coastal paths linking to Duckpool and Northcott Mouth. There is a cafe, in season, overlooking the beach and serving breakfast, hot and cold lunches, cream teas and ice cream.

Uneven ground/steps to the beach. Blue Badge parking and accessible toilet from April to the end of September. Parking charges are in force.

Sandymouth is a two-pawprint-rated place. These places have water bowls, dog bins and dog-friendly walks.

There are plenty more beaches and coves up and down the coastline to explore and enjoy. Summerleaze beach, as an example, offers a unique appeal because it is less than five minutes from the centre of Bude and the large car park leads directly to the dunes. With its bobbing fishing boats, the river flanks the wide, sandy beach sheltered by the impressive breakwater, making it particularly popular with families and surfers.

South West Coastal Path and public footpaths

There are endless walks along the coast, both North and South and they can occupy a great deal of your day. The beaches are a major attraction, but this and inland offer great walking opportunities with your dogs. Bude is only 3 miles North, and taking a circular route can be a great way to get that fresh air and exercise.

The route to the right is just a suggestion, but many walks are available.