Holsworthy Beaches

Overview

Holsworthy offers a peaceful, inland base for exploring the stunning North Cornwall coastline. While the town itself isn't coastal, the beautiful beaches around Bude are just a short 20-30 minute drive away. This area is famed for its expansive sandy shores, revealed especially at low tide, set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs typical of the Atlantic coast.

Among the highlights easily reached from Holsworthy is Bude's main town beach, Summerleaze Beach, known for its accessibility and unique sea pool offering sheltered swimming. Nearby, Crooklets Beach is a favourite with locals, great for exploring rock pools. Just south of Bude lies the vast expanse of Widemouth Bay, renowned as a fantastic spot for surfers of all levels. For breathtaking scenery, the National Trust's Sandymouth offers dramatic views and a wilder feel.

The beaches near Holsworthy cater to various interests. Swimming is popular, though the Atlantic waters can be cool; the sea pool at Summerleaze Beach provides a calmer alternative. Surfing conditions, especially at Widemouth Bay, attract many visitors. Families appreciate the sandy spaces and seasonal lifeguard cover at the main beaches. Remember that dog access can vary seasonally on some beaches.

Whether you seek family fun, surfing adventures, or simply relaxing on the sand, the coastline near Holsworthy delivers. Explore our editor's picks for detailed insights or browse our full guide for even more beach options along this captivating stretch of coast. Always check tide times and safety information before your visit.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Holsworthy a good base for a beach holiday?

Holsworthy is an inland market town, not directly on the coast. However, it can serve as a convenient base if you don't mind driving to the beaches. The nearest coastline, primarily around Bude in North Cornwall, is about a 20-30 minute drive away. It offers a quieter, rural setting away from the busier coastal resorts.

What are the beaches near Holsworthy like? Are they sandy?

The beaches closest to Holsworthy, mainly along the North Cornwall coast near Bude, are known for their beautiful sandy stretches. Popular options like Summerleaze Beach and Crooklets Beach in Bude, and Widemouth Bay just south of Bude, offer large expanses of sand, especially at low tide. Some smaller coves might have pebbles or rocks mixed in.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

Can you swim in the sea near Holsworthy?

Yes, swimming is popular at the main beaches near Holsworthy, such as those around Bude (Summerleaze, Crooklets) and Widemouth Bay. However, the Atlantic water can be chilly, even in summer. Always check sea conditions and lifeguard advice, as currents and waves can be strong. Summerleaze Beach in Bude benefits from a part-natural, part-man-made sea pool, offering a safer swimming option.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

What's the closest beach to Holsworthy?

The closest significant beaches to Holsworthy are in and around Bude, North Cornwall. Summerleaze Beach in Bude town centre is typically the nearest, approximately 9-10 miles away by road.

Summerleaze Beach

Should I stay in Holsworthy or closer to the coast for a beach trip?

If your priority is spending maximum time on the beach and easy access, staying in Bude or near Widemouth Bay might be better. If you prefer a quieter, rural base, enjoy exploring the wider area including inland attractions, and don't mind a short drive to the coast, Holsworthy is a viable option.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Widemouth Bay

How long does it take to get to the beach from Holsworthy?

Driving from Holsworthy to the nearest beaches in Bude usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific beach you're heading to. Beaches slightly further afield, like Widemouth Bay or those in North Devon, might take 30-45 minutes.

Widemouth Bay

Are the beaches near Holsworthy good for families?

Yes, many beaches near Holsworthy are very family-friendly. Summerleaze Beach in Bude is particularly popular due to its large sandy area, sea pool, and town facilities nearby. Widemouth Bay also offers vast sandy space ideal for children. Many beaches have lifeguard cover during peak season.

Summerleaze Beach

Widemouth Bay

Are dogs allowed on beaches near Holsworthy?

Dog policies vary by beach and time of year. Many beaches near Holsworthy have seasonal restrictions, typically limiting dog access during the main summer months (e.g., Easter/May to September) on main sections during daytime hours. However, some beaches, or specific parts of beaches like Black Rock Beach at the southern end of Widemouth Bay, allow dogs year-round. Always check specific beach signage or council websites for current rules.

Widemouth Bay

People Also Ask

Which is better near Holsworthy: Bude beaches or Widemouth Bay?

Both are excellent choices with slightly different appeals. Bude beaches (Summerleaze, Crooklets) are right in the town, offering easy access to shops, cafes, and the sea pool. Widemouth Bay is a very long sandy beach just south of Bude, popular for surfing and space, with good parking and cafe facilities but less town infrastructure directly adjacent.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

Is parking easy at the beaches near Holsworthy?

Parking is available at most main beaches like Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth Bay, but it can get very busy and fill up quickly, especially during peak summer holidays and sunny weekends. Arriving early is recommended. Most car parks are pay-and-display.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

Are there good surfing beaches near Holsworthy?

Yes, the coastline near Holsworthy, particularly around Bude and Widemouth Bay, is very popular for surfing and bodyboarding. Widemouth Bay is renowned for its consistent waves suitable for various abilities. Bude's beaches also offer good surf, and there are several surf schools operating in the area.

Widemouth Bay

What are some quieter, less crowded beaches near Holsworthy?

While Bude and Widemouth are popular, you can find quieter spots. Consider exploring beaches further north into Devon like Welcombe Mouth or Sandymouth (National Trust, north of Bude), or smaller coves south of Widemouth Bay. Access might involve steeper paths or less parking.

Sandymouth

Widemouth Bay

Are there facilities like cafes and toilets at the beaches?

The main beaches near Holsworthy, such as Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth Bay, generally have good facilities including toilets, cafes, and sometimes shops or equipment hire. Facilities at smaller, more remote coves will be limited or non-existent.

Summerleaze Beach

Crooklets Beach

Widemouth Bay

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