The Bude Tunnel
Forget the Eden Project and move over St Michael’s Mount; Cornwall has a new heavyweight in the tourism industry. The Bude Tunnel is a 70-meter-long architectural triumph of perspex and steel. Originally designed as a humble walkway for a supermarket, it has ascended to legendary status as Bude’s highest-rated “attraction.” It is a site of pilgrimage for those who appreciate the finer things in life; specifically, staying dry while walking from a car park to a set of automatic doors.
And no, this isn’t a wind up, the Bude Tunnel has become something of an Internet sensation. 🙂
The Experience
The Bude Tunnel offers a multisensory journey unlike any other in the South West. Whether you are an art critic or just someone who forgot their umbrella, the tunnel provides:- 70 meters of continuous, undercover glory
- Stunning, 360-degree views of the Bude Sainsbury’s car park
- A climate-controlled environment (mostly controlled by the Atlantic gales)
- The perfect lighting for an ironic selfie that will baffle your followers
Dining & Retail
While the tunnel itself is minimalist in its offerings, its strategic placement ensures you are never far from a celebratory feast or a souvenir.- The Sainsbury’s Café: Conveniently located at one end of the tunnel for a celebratory post-walk tea and a cheeky flapjack.
- The Supermarket: Offering a wide range of “Bude Tunnel adjacent” merchandise, including actual groceries and very reasonable meal deals.
Our Top Picks
For the ultimate experience, we recommend visiting during a heavy Cornish downpour; it is the only time the tunnel’s true genius is fully revealed. If you are feeling festive, the tunnel is occasionally adorned with Christmas lights, which is basically the Bude equivalent of the Northern Lights. Make sure to walk the full length; many tourists give up halfway, but the real ones know that the Sainsbury’s foyer is the ultimate reward.Key Details
- Location: Crooklets Road, Bude, Cornwall, EX23 8NE
- Parking: Plentiful parking is available right outside, though it is primarily intended for people buying milk rather than architectural enthusiasts.
- Admission: Free (it’s the best value for money you’ll find in the county).
- Visit The Bude Tourism Website | View on Google Maps