Bude Tunnel
Bude Tunnel
4.7
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
The only tunnel Bude has to offer is open to the public free of charge, walk from the Sainsbury's car park to Crooklets Road completely undercover, protected from the elements whilst maintaining your view to the spectacular surroundings of Bude. Consisting of 36 metal arches and over 70m long, nowhere else in Bude can you walk this far undercover in a continuos straight line, all ages are welcome
Duration: < 1 hour
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4.7
1,503 reviews
Excellent
1,315
Very good
56
Average
30
Poor
19
Terrible
83
Sarah V
1 contribution
Dec 2024 • Solo
Spectacular engineering. Well worth the detour from my trip to stop off and explore the tunnel. Panoramic vista from one side, well sheltered from the elements. It wasn't very warm on the day I visited, and a bit wet outside, but the locals were very friendly and a young man offered to give me a tour for a tenner. As the entrance itself is free, this seemed a very reasonable deal and I do like to encourage enterprise in the youth of today. He pointed out special features of interest, and encouraged me to walk slowly through to prolong the experience. Very handy near car parking and access to food and drink. Would visit again.
Written 18 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
knockpigs
5 contributions
Feb 2025 • Friends
Truly a life changing event visiting this historical site and an experience that has made me reconsider my life choices. This architectural wonder, is a delight to the senses and has the added advantage of shielding you from the elements, with the added delight of shopping trolleys if you wanted to shop. In parts there are missing bits of the structure which really adds to the excitement, especially if raining and windy. Unfortunately we could not visit the Sainsburys as we attended on a Sunday late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Our visit had to be cut short due to my requirement for an urgent bathroom break, possibly caused by the excitement of the tunnel.
Written 9 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tony p
Tamworth, UK6 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
If you’re looking for a place that’s part historical curiosity, part atmospheric stroll, and all-around excellent for sharing on social media, the Bude Tunnel is your go-to destination. Nestled in the charming coastal town of Bude, this tunnel is definitely not just a hole in the ground—and by “not just” I mean it’s an exciting mix of mystery, dampness, and a questionable echo!
As soon as you enter, you’re greeted by a delightful whiff of cool air and the distinct sound of… nothing? Seriously though, it’s a great spot for testing your best horror movie whispers—a must if you’re in a group! While the tunnel isn’t exactly a catwalk, be sure to bring your best pair of shoes because you’ll want to avoid the slightly slippery patches that could turn your stroll into an impromptu ice-skating session.
The historical significance is real—built in the 1820s to transport sea sand, this tunnel has seen a fair share of surf and turf. And by ‘surf and turf’, I mean it’s probably hosted more timid tourists than it has sand. One moment you’re reveling in the historical vibes; the next, you’re questioning your life choices as you hear the distant sounds of seagulls outside. Leave no stone unturned, unless that stone's actually a slippery patch that could send you sprawling in a very non-Instagrammable way.
Don’t forget to bring a flashlight if you’re feeling adventurous—the dim light adds just enough ambiance to scare the average passerby! Pro tip: Invest in a clicker if you want a great photo op with those classic tunnel arches. Just don’t be surprised if the ghosts of past sea sand transporters photobomb your shots.
Overall, the Bude Tunnel is a quirky little attraction that’s worth a visit between sunbathing on the beach and indulging in local fish and chips. Whether you're into history, low-budget thrills, or just a good photo, this tunnel will not leave you in the dark… well, mostly. Just don’t forget to bring your sense of humor, because the only thing darker than the tunnel is the punchline to your bad tunnel jokes!
As soon as you enter, you’re greeted by a delightful whiff of cool air and the distinct sound of… nothing? Seriously though, it’s a great spot for testing your best horror movie whispers—a must if you’re in a group! While the tunnel isn’t exactly a catwalk, be sure to bring your best pair of shoes because you’ll want to avoid the slightly slippery patches that could turn your stroll into an impromptu ice-skating session.
The historical significance is real—built in the 1820s to transport sea sand, this tunnel has seen a fair share of surf and turf. And by ‘surf and turf’, I mean it’s probably hosted more timid tourists than it has sand. One moment you’re reveling in the historical vibes; the next, you’re questioning your life choices as you hear the distant sounds of seagulls outside. Leave no stone unturned, unless that stone's actually a slippery patch that could send you sprawling in a very non-Instagrammable way.
Don’t forget to bring a flashlight if you’re feeling adventurous—the dim light adds just enough ambiance to scare the average passerby! Pro tip: Invest in a clicker if you want a great photo op with those classic tunnel arches. Just don’t be surprised if the ghosts of past sea sand transporters photobomb your shots.
Overall, the Bude Tunnel is a quirky little attraction that’s worth a visit between sunbathing on the beach and indulging in local fish and chips. Whether you're into history, low-budget thrills, or just a good photo, this tunnel will not leave you in the dark… well, mostly. Just don’t forget to bring your sense of humor, because the only thing darker than the tunnel is the punchline to your bad tunnel jokes!
Written 25 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andy P
4 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
What can I say. Absolutely breathtaking. The reviews do not do it justice. On a particularly rainy day, Bude Tunnel offered a welcome shelter from the appalling weather. Free to enter, dog friendly, we were so mesmerised, we actually went through twice. The Tunnel itself runs adjacent to the site of an ancient bazaar established in 1869 , named Sans - beris , which I believe is Cornish for " many treasures" . The market is still operating today and the weary traveller can stock up on food, refreshments and all manner of trinkets and other tat that you may or may not need.We visited Bude Tunnel during the day, but one can only imagine the delight of an evening visit , when it is reputed to be lit up in an azure blue glow. On a cautionary note, Bude Tunnel is not suitable for anyone who has suffered a sense of humour by-pass.
Written 9 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jordan B
Isle of Portland, UK17 contributions
Nov 2024 • Friends
A lot of time has passed since my experience of the Bude tunnel, but I still get butterflies when the thought creeps into my mind. From start to finish, I felt like I was levitating through this magical engineering spectical. A husky ride through a snow laden forest in Lapland has NOTHING on this once in a lifetime extravaganza. I only hope the people who must have spent decades building this unique wonder are retired on their own private island, being fed grapes by Lithuanian dwarves right now. No one in history has managed to please so many people, and the fact it is free still blows my mind to this day. I’m welling up even writing this review, this really is a life changing experience and one I would even recommend flying from the other side of the world to observe. Bude tunnel, my life will never quite be the same, thank you, Jordan xxx
Written 22 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JCM
1 contribution
May 2024 • Couples
After scrolling the internet of places to visit around Bude, I stumbled across the Bude Tunnel. Wanting to impress my girlfriend, I felt this would be the perfect place to visit... It's hard to describe in words the delight, amazement and sheer experience of joy that I could see in my partners eyes when exiting Sainsbury's car park to advance towards the glorious metal and perspex structure. Once we were inside, the experience only heightened to our uptmost experience of joy! We were also fortunate to go in the first week of May, which I can only assume is "Modern Art" month where we were also fortunate enough to view the "Modern Cone Arrangement Art" (as pictured) in its full glory and wonder. Practically nestled next to Sainsbury's we also spent a little time to browse the store and purchase several items, to then be able to enjoy the full experience in reverse on our exit. If you're situated in the UK or visiting, this really is a must see.
On a secondary note, I asked my girlfriend to marry me over the weekend, which I can only assume that due to the pure giddy highs set by the Bude Tunnel, she agreed to say yes.
On a secondary note, I asked my girlfriend to marry me over the weekend, which I can only assume that due to the pure giddy highs set by the Bude Tunnel, she agreed to say yes.
Written 5 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Voyage66780220419
1 contribution
Feb 2025 • Friends
We visited the famous Bude tunnel today after reading the brilliant reviews on here. We went on a Sunday after 4 o'clock to avoid the crowds. Although we enjoyed the experience, it was cut short because one of our party needed a poo. I'm not actually sure he really did need to go, or just said this because he wasn't that enthusiastic about the perspex tunnel. If you need to get some shopping from Sainsbury's, it's possibly worth a visit.
Written 9 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Unicorn72
Bristol, UK197 contributions
Feb 2025 • Friends
What an amazing place! We had read all the wonderful reviews and didn’t believe it could be as good as people say….it is. We went as a group of 4 and agreed it’s a great attraction in February but maybe a bit hot in August.
Saying that, if you are in Bude it’s well worth the visit. The group of 6 young men(early 20s) really enjoyed taking photos at this great attraction.
Saying that, if you are in Bude it’s well worth the visit. The group of 6 young men(early 20s) really enjoyed taking photos at this great attraction.
Written 8 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FraserG
5 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
We recently traveled all the way from Buckinghamshire to experience the most amazing tunnel walk, and it was absolutely worth every mile. The best part? It was completely free!
The tunnel itself is a marvel—beautifully carved through nature, with breathtaking sights at every turn. As we walked, the light filtering through the tunnel created a mesmerizing atmosphere, adding a touch of magic to the entire experience.
If you’re looking for a serene and scenic escape, this tunnel walk is a must-visit!
The tunnel itself is a marvel—beautifully carved through nature, with breathtaking sights at every turn. As we walked, the light filtering through the tunnel created a mesmerizing atmosphere, adding a touch of magic to the entire experience.
If you’re looking for a serene and scenic escape, this tunnel walk is a must-visit!
Written 10 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dave B
Warwickshire, UK4 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Well what can I say. I travelled down with my beautiful wife from Warwickshire to visit Bude just to visit the famous Bude Tunnel. Needless to say we WERE NOT DISAPPOINTED!!
The architecture is simply breathtaking!!! Reminent of postmodernism but with a classic Cornish twist. Very impressive indeed. It's also very romantic and whilst we were there another couple starting getting a little amorous. I can understand why. Also worth mentioning, it's built next to Sainsburys so very convenient if you wanted to get a bottle of bubbly to toast your special occasion. Will definitely be returning!!
The architecture is simply breathtaking!!! Reminent of postmodernism but with a classic Cornish twist. Very impressive indeed. It's also very romantic and whilst we were there another couple starting getting a little amorous. I can understand why. Also worth mentioning, it's built next to Sainsburys so very convenient if you wanted to get a bottle of bubbly to toast your special occasion. Will definitely be returning!!
Written 24 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is there a dress code? Me and my 5 kids, Aiden, Jayden, Kayden, Hayden, Okayden, only wear Kappa knock offs from my mate PJ. Also bonus points if I can get some cheap White Lightening near by.
Written 17 September 2021
Best enjoyed naked, smeared in fishpaste from the discount aisle in the local sainsburys. At least in my opinion.
Written 18 September 2021
This lovely. I have two very active children. Are there any special events or activities planned for the half term ( trolley racing?) How long will it keep them occupied? Are there any food and drink op?
Written 31 October 2020
Hi 715carlj, there are no events, I mean, when would you need them, they would only detract from the experience? As to catering, there is a spotty teenager in a hoodie who sells poor quality Class A drugs most weekend evenings in section 4. I also once found a half-eaten scotch egg in one of the trolleys so maybe you could tell your kids it's a scavenger hunt...?
Written 9 January 2021
I have a love for perspex but an irrational fear of shopping trolleys. Is it safe to visit?
Written 23 February 2020
No, those trolleys are ravenous and they attack in groups. If going I recommend you buy a Sainsbury's survival guide.
Written 3 March 2020
Is there any chance that a mild north westerly breeze could turn into a "vortex" of sorts?
I am concerned that the enclosed nature of the structure may literally "take my breath away".
Whilst I don't have any known asthmatic issues I can get breathless when confronted with beauty.
Written 21 September 2019
Hi Mike. I'm unable to reassure you that the tunnel can not be subject to sudden vortices, but it is well worth the risk. I can think of few better places to be introduced to sudden air movements, and personally recommend its genuinely breathtaking ambience.
Written 16 October 2019
As someone that suffers from clausophobia, which is not related to claustrophobia, can I be assured I won't encounter Santa in the tunnel, even at Xmas time? I don't want to have to out run his Tow-Missile again.
Written 2 September 2019
The unique, architecturally brilliant Perspex design means that even deep in to the tunnel, claustrophobia should not be a concern but as with all similar structures, it’s not recommended for individuals suffering with Gephyrophobia or any kind of tunnel vision
Written 6 September 2019
Is there a dress code for thisattraction and do you need to book a slot?
Written 23 August 2019
Smart casual is acceptable, booking is advised during high season.
Written 23 August 2019
I suppose the wonderful lights of the tunnel are only to see in the evening?
Does anybody know when it will start in July??
Written 5 July 2019
The lights will automatically turn on as soon as the switch is triggered. This usually happens when it's beginning to go dark as well as when the local town has a fair.
Hope this helps
Best
Written 2 September 2019
Is it possible to book tickets in advance for this attraction? We are also interested in knowing what time the guided tours are. I am travelling from the Midlands with my family during peak season and wish to guarantee availability. My children are excited and I don't want them to miss this opportunity.
Written 27 May 2019
Is this attraction suitable for people with mobility problems? Would it appeal to young children and is there a picnic area/ cafe in the tunnel itself?
Written 24 May 2019
Completely accessible. Small children will be disappointed with anything ever after experiencing this. You can find refreshments at the end of the tunnel as long as it before 8pm when Cornwall closes. Picnic wise? I fear you may get a lot of tutting and maybe ran over a little.
Written 24 May 2019
Is this still open please, I’d like to bring my family to see it
Written 20 December 2018
Yes the tunnel is an ever-present portal to a shining golden nirvana. It will outlive Bude itself.
Written 21 August 2019
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