Greenway Beach

The walk down to Greenway Beach near Bude is half the appeal. A steep coastal path winds through scrubby vegetation before opening onto a proper sheltered cove - all golden sand and dark rocky outcrops. It's the kind of beach that feels genuinely cut off from the rest of the world, which means it stays quieter than Bude's main beaches even in peak summer.

The sand here is firm and good for walking, and at low tide you get access to rock pools that'll keep kids occupied for hours. The backdrop of red sandstone cliffs gives it real character - nothing like the bland stretches you find elsewhere on this stretch of coast. Swimming is decent enough, though it can feel chilly even in July.

Families will appreciate the relative peace, though the steep walk down means it's not suitable for pushchairs or anyone with mobility issues. It's a 15-minute trek minimum, so factor that into your plans. The cove faces south-east, so morning light here is genuinely lovely if you can manage an early visit.

If you're based at Atlantic Horizons or Wooda Farm - both excellent spots within 4 miles - this makes an easy half-day trip. Park near Bude and make an afternoon of it. Allow two to three hours minimum. Come on a quiet weekday if possible; weekends see enough footfall to spoil the sense of remoteness.