Historic sites to visit near Bude

Launceston Castle

• Time period: Medieval
• Historical relevance: Launceston Castle is one of the best-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castles in Cornwall, dating back to the 11th century. Once a strategic stronghold overlooking the River Tamar, the castle played a significant role in medieval history.
• Surrounding area: Situated atop a large natural mound, Launceston Castle has panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the rolling hills of Bodmin Moor and the lush Tamar Valley.
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 25 miles.

Morwenstow Church

• Time period: Medieval to Victorian
• Historical relevance: Morwenstow Church, dedicated to Saint Morwenna and Saint John the Baptist, is a medieval church known for its association with the eccentric vicar and poet Reverend Robert Hawker. The churchyard is also home to Hawker’s Hut, a secluded retreat where Reverend Hawker wrote poetry and held outdoor services.
• Surrounding Area: Like many historical sites, Morwenstow Church is nestled amidst the rugged cliffs of the dramatic coastline. It’s a beautiful spot with views across the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Hawker’s Hut. It’s a peaceful location and a great place for personal reflection. 
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 15 miles.

Castle Bude

• Period: Victorian
• Historical relevance: Castle Bude, also known as Bude Castle, is a Victorian fortification built in the 19th century to defend against invasion during the Crimean War. Today, the castle houses the Bude-Stratton Museum, which showcases the area’s maritime history and local heritage.
• Surrounding area: Situated overlooking Summerleaze Beach and the Bude Canal, Castle Bude has stunning coastline and countryside views. There are also some great paths for coastal walks and hiking.
• Distance from Bude: Located in Bude town centre.

St. Michael’s Mount

• Time period: Medieval to Tudor
• Historical relevance: St. Michael’s Mount is a tidal island crowned by a medieval castle and church dating back to the 12th century. It is steeped in legend and folklore. The island has been inhabited since ancient times and was once a monastery and pilgrimage site.
• Surrounding area: Accessible via a causeway at low tide or by boat, St. Michael’s Mount has stunning views of Mount’s Bay and the surrounding coastline, with gardens, pathways, and historic buildings to explore. It’s a full day out, so pack a picnic!
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 50 miles.

Bodmin Jail

• Period: Georgian to Victorian
• Historical relevance: A historic former prison dating back to the late 18th century, Bodmin Jail, is known for its imposing architecture and dark history. The jail housed prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars to the early 20th century and is now a popular tourist attraction, including a museum.
• Surrounding area: It is perched on the edge of Bodmin Moor, an area of natural beauty with many well-trodden paths. Bodmin Jail has brilliant views of the rugged landscape. Nearby historic sites include Bodmin Town and the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 30 miles.

Boscastle Harbour

• Period: Medieval to present day
• Historical relevance: Boscastle Harbour is a stunning natural harbour that has served as a trading port since medieval times. The wider area is also known for its association with witchcraft and folklore. The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is located nearby, and it showcases artefacts and exhibitions related to the history of witchcraft and occult practices.
• Surrounding area: The harbour is protected by the rugged cliffs of the North Cornwall coast. It has stunning views of the surrounding coastline and countryside. Plenty of coastal walks are nearby, with opportunities to spot wildlife, or a gentle, flat walk takes you around Boscastle’s scenic village. 
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 20 miles.

St. Petroc’s Church, Petrockstowe

• Period: Medieval
• Historical relevance: St. Petroc’s Church in Petrockstowe is a medieval church dating back to the 13th century. It is known for its historic architecture and unique features, including a rare example of a Norman font. The churchyard also contains ancient yew trees, a medieval preaching cross and a burial mound for the Royalist soldiers in the cemetery.
• Surrounding area: Situated in the peaceful countryside of North Devon, St. Petroc’s Church is in a tranquil setting. It’s an excellent place for reflection, with picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 25 miles.

Docton Mill Gardens

• Period: Victorian to present day
• Historical relevance: Docton Mill Gardens is a historic watermill and garden dating back to the Victorian era. It is known for its picturesque setting and beautiful floral displays. Originally built in the 19th century, the mill has been restored and is now a popular tourist attraction and tea room – we can personally vouch for the quality of the cake.
• Surrounding area: It is set among the rolling hills of North Devon. Docton Mill Gardens is another great place for people looking for a tranquil retreat. It has scenic walks, flower-filled gardens, and a charming tea room serving homemade treats.
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 15 miles.

Egloshayle Church, Wadebridge

• Period: Medieval to present day
• Historical relevance: Egloshayle Church in Wadebridge is a historic parish church dating back to the medieval period, with parts of the building dating back to the 12th century. The church is known for its beautiful stained glass windows, ornate woodwork, and historic memorials.
• Surrounding area: Located on the banks of the River Camel, Egloshayle Church has scenic views of the surrounding countryside and river, with some fantastic riverside walks to explore.
• Distance from Bude: Approximately 15 miles.

There are many more historical sites to explore around Bude, North Cornwall, and Devon, but these are some of our top picks. So pack your walking shoes, grab your camera, and go out and discover the fascinating history that awaits just beyond the border of Bude.