Beaworthy Beaches

Overview

Thinking of a beach holiday based in Beaworthy? It's important to know that Beaworthy is a charming inland market town, not a coastal resort. Reaching the nearest beaches typically involves a drive of around 30-45 minutes to the scenic North Cornwall and North Devon coastline. Because of this, having a car is essential for exploring the diverse coastal spots accessible from the town.

The coastline near Beaworthy boasts impressive stretches of sand, especially when the tide goes out. You'll find popular choices around Bude, such as Summerleaze Beach, known for its unique sea pool and family appeal, and the neighbouring Crooklets Beach. A little further south, Widemouth Bay is a spacious favourite, particularly popular with surfers. While the Atlantic waters are inviting, remember that conditions can be powerful, so swimming safely often means choosing lifeguarded areas.

Beyond the immediate Bude area, the coastline offers varied experiences. Discover the famously named Westward Ho! Beach with its traditional seaside atmosphere, or venture to the vast expanse of Saunton Sands, backed by impressive dunes. Many of these beaches also provide access to the dramatic South West Coast Path, perfect for coastal walks with stunning views.

While Beaworthy provides a peaceful, non-coastal base, it allows for easy day trips to a wide array of beautiful beaches. From family-friendly sands and surf hubs to vast dune systems, the nearby coast has much to offer. See our editor's picks for highlights, or browse our full list for more options to discover during your stay.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Beaworthy a good place to stay for a beach holiday?

Beaworthy is an inland market town, not a coastal resort. While it offers a central Devon location, you'll need to drive to reach the beaches, typically taking 30-45 minutes to the nearest ones on the North Cornwall coast like Bude. It can work if you prefer a quieter, non-coastal base and don't mind travelling for beach days, but it's not ideal if you want immediate beach access.

How far actually is Beaworthy from the nearest beach?

The closest beaches to Beaworthy are generally on the North Cornwall coast around Bude. The drive is approximately 18-20 miles and usually takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific beach. Beaches like Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth Bay in the Bude area are the most accessible.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

Can you swim safely in the sea at beaches near Beaworthy? What's the water like?

Yes, swimming is popular, but the North Atlantic coast here can have strong currents, rips, and large waves, especially at low tide or during swells. It's crucial to swim on lifeguarded beaches between the red and yellow flags. Water temperatures are cool, peaking around 16-18°C in late summer. Wetsuits are recommended for longer periods in the water.

What are the beaches near Beaworthy like – mainly sandy or pebbly?

The most accessible beaches near Beaworthy, primarily around Bude and Widemouth Bay, are known for their large expanses of sand, especially at low tide. Some beaches may have pebbles or shingle, particularly near the high tide line or at the back of the beach, but sandy stretches are dominant.

Widemouth Bay

Which beaches near Beaworthy are best for families with young children?

Summerleaze Beach in Bude is often recommended for families due to its sheltered position, large sandy area, adjacent sea pool (offering safer bathing), and easy access to town facilities. Crooklets Beach (also Bude) and Widemouth Bay (south of Bude) are also popular family choices with good facilities, though potentially more exposed to waves.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

Are dogs allowed on the beaches near Beaworthy? Are there restrictions?

Dog policies vary by beach and time of year. Many beaches near Beaworthy, particularly around Bude and further along the coast, have seasonal restrictions, typically banning dogs from main sections between Easter/May and the end of September during daytime hours. However, some beaches allow dogs year-round (like Black Rock Beach at the southern end of Widemouth Bay), and others have designated dog-friendly areas. Always check specific beach signage or council websites before visiting.

Widemouth Bay

What's parking typically like at the popular beaches (like Bude) during summer?

Parking at popular beaches like Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth Bay can be challenging and expensive during peak season (July/August and sunny weekends). Car parks often fill up early, especially if the weather is good. Arriving early or considering alternative transport like local buses (where available) is advisable. Some smaller coves may have very limited or no dedicated parking.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

Are there any quieter, less crowded beaches near Beaworthy to escape the main crowds?

Yes, while Bude beaches are popular, you can find quieter spots. Consider exploring beaches further north towards Hartland (e.g., Welcombe Mouth - requires a walk) or south of Widemouth Bay (e.g., Crackington Haven, though still popular). Smaller coves like Sandymouth (National Trust, north of Bude) can sometimes feel less busy than the main town beaches, although access can involve steeper paths.

Crackington Haven

Widemouth Bay

What's the best way to travel to the beaches from Beaworthy? Do I need a car?

A car is highly recommended for accessing beaches from Beaworthy. Public transport options are limited and often indirect, making car travel significantly more convenient and flexible for reaching the various coastal spots. Driving allows you to explore different beaches along the coast easily.

Are the beaches near Beaworthy generally lifeguarded?

The main popular beaches, such as Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth Bay near Bude, typically have RNLI lifeguard cover during the peak season (usually from Easter/May bank holiday weekend to the end of September). However, cover times vary, and smaller or more remote beaches may not be lifeguarded at all. Always check RNLI schedules and swim between the flags where available.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

Which beach near Beaworthy is considered best for surfing?

Widemouth Bay is very popular for surfing, offering waves suitable for various abilities and plenty of space. Crooklets Beach in Bude is also a well-known surf spot, often hosting competitions. Conditions vary, so checking local surf reports is essential. Several surf schools operate in the Bude area, particularly at Widemouth and Summerleaze.

Widemouth Bay

Crooklets Beach

Summerleaze Beach

Are there accessible beaches near Beaworthy for pushchairs or wheelchairs?

Summerleaze Beach in Bude is generally considered one of the most accessible, with relatively level access from the car park and town onto the sand, plus a tarmac path along the back of the beach and canal. Some beaches offer sand chair hire (check Bude Tourist Information). Many other beaches involve steps or steep paths, making access difficult.

Summerleaze Beach

What facilities (like toilets and cafes) can I expect at the beaches near Beaworthy?

The main beaches around Bude (Summerleaze, Crooklets) and Widemouth Bay are well-equipped with public toilets, cafes, and often beach shops or equipment hire. Facilities at smaller or more remote coves will be much more limited, sometimes non-existent, so plan accordingly if visiting less popular spots.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

What's the difference between Summerleaze and Crooklets beaches in Bude?

Summerleaze is closer to Bude town centre, features the Bude Sea Pool, and has the River Neet running across it. It's generally seen as slightly more sheltered and family-oriented. Crooklets is adjacent, just over a low cliff, known for being good for surfing and often hosts events. Both are sandy, especially at low tide when they connect, but have slightly different characters and access points.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach