Compass Cove

The cliffs at Compass Cove rear up sudden and dramatic - russet and gold against whatever weather Cornwall's throwing at you that day. It's a proper wild stretch of beach, the kind where you need to scramble down to reach the sand properly, so it doesn't get rammed even in August. Bude's only a short drive away, which makes it a decent alternative if you're after something less heaving than Summerleaze.

What you get here is raw coastline. The beach itself is dark sand and shingle, backed by those impressive cliffs that shift colour depending on the light. Low tide opens up proper exploring territory - rock pools, weird formations, the lot. High tide? Less useful, but the view from above is still worth stopping for. It's the kind of place where walkers and photographers spend proper time, while families with toddlers might find the scramble down a bit much.

You'll want to allow a couple of hours minimum if you're actually going down to the beach. Parking's informal - just pull off the road and find a spot - and it's free. Bring sturdy shoes. The path gets a bit slippery and loose in places.

If you're staying at Wooda Farm Holiday Park two miles inland, this is a cracking morning jaunt before breakfast or a late afternoon wander. Atlantic Surf Pods is closer if you want something quick between activities. Neither location is far enough that you'd skip Compass Cove if the tide's right.