Parking in Bude is generally easier than in St Ives or Padstow because the town is more open and spread out. However, picking the wrong car park can still leave you with a long walk carrying deckchairs.
Bude is effectively split into three zones: Summerleaze Beach (Town Centre), Crooklets Beach (North), and the Canal/Wharf area. Knowing your destination before you arrive is key.
Our Top Picks
Depending on your plan for the day, these are the most strategic places to leave your car.
- Best for Town & Summerleaze Beach: Summerleaze Beach Car Park. You are parked right next to the dunes and the Sea Pool.
- Best for Canal Walks & Shops: The Wharf Car Park. Located next to the library and canal, perfect for a flat walk into town.
- Best for Surfing: Crooklets Beach Car Park. The northern end of Bude, home to the surf club and a slightly quieter vibe.
Town Centre & Summerleaze Area
These car parks are ideal if you want to visit the main high street, Bude Sea Pool, or the castle.
Summerleaze Beach Car Park
Postcode: EX23 8HN
Capacity: ~400 spaces
Best For: Beach days and the Sea Pool. This is the premier spot in Bude. It offers direct access to the sand. Note that during high tides or storms, the lower section can be closed.
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The Wharf (Canal)
Postcode: EX23 8LG
Capacity: ~150 spaces
Best For: The Farmers Market, Library, and Canal walks. It is slightly tucked away behind the main road but offers very easy level access to the shops.
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The Crescent
Postcode: EX23 8LE
Capacity: ~130 spaces
Best For: The Supermarket and Tourist Information. Located centrally, just opposite the main shops.
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Post Office Car Park
Postcode: EX23 8LU
Capacity: ~60 spaces
Best For: Short stays. A small car park right in the middle of the one-way system.
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Crooklets & Northern Bude
Crooklets is separated from Summerleaze by a rocky outcrop (though you can walk between them at low tide or over the downs). Park here if you want to avoid the main town crowds.
Crooklets Beach Car Park
Postcode: EX23 8NE
Capacity: ~250 spaces
Best For: Surfing and families who want a play park nearby. It is flatter than Summerleaze but doesn’t have the direct town access.
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Roslyn Gardens (Overflow)
Postcode: EX23 8LF
Capacity: ~20 spaces
Best For: If Crooklets is full. It is a small patch of grass/tarmac slightly further back from the beach.
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Widemouth Bay (Nearby)
Although technically just south of Bude, many visitors stay in Bude and drive here for the waves.
Widemouth Bay (Main & Black Rock)
Postcode: EX23 0AW
Capacity: Large
Best For: A full day at the beach. Widemouth is a long stretch of sand. ‘Black Rock’ is the southern end (better for rock pooling), while the main car park is central (better for the cafes).
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Now that parking is sorted, plan the rest of your trip with our complete guide to Bude.