The Bude Tunnel image

The Bude Tunnel

Tourist attraction โ€ข Scenic spot

One of the Best Places To Visits in Flexbury


Address

7 Erdiston Ct, Bude EX23 8HE, United Kingdom

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (467 reviews)

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Working Hours

  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours
  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: tunnel (48) Bude (40) Tunnel (27) visit (17) life (16) experience (14) world (12) time (10) recommend (9) miles (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Greg K. 2 years ago on Google
    After a week of dramatic wind swept coastal walks and superb beach adventures, we didn't think our adrenaline glands had anything left in them.. but thank goodness they did, as the Bude tunnel has your heart racing from entrance to exit. Brace yourselves for a roller coaster of emotions and don't be afraid to take a pause halfway through, just to gather and recalibrate your senses. Thoroughly recommend to the emotionally hardy but the more fragile traveler should consider the longer term effects of such an assualt on the senses.
    103 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 C 2 years ago on Google
    Perhaps a wonder of the world. A true testament to human engineering, a combination of metal, plastic and concrete. The result is breathtaking. Entering the tunnel gives the same feeling of awe you get looking up at the night sky. The feeling that humanity has peaked. I spontaneous erupted in every sense of the word and left, truly satisfied from my visit Highly recommend.
    74 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 the m. 1 year ago on Google
    Where can I even begin. All I can say is that since I have visited the Bude tunnel, my life has felt different - calmer, more fulfilled - it's like I have been imbued with a sense of purpose. The tunnel left me at a loss for words, but I will do my best to describe it to you. I'll try to keep this review from getting too long, as every second you spend outside the Bude Tunnel is, quite frankly, a second wasted. The tunnel puts all other landmarks to shame. I have seen the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Colosseum - all of them pale in comparison to the tunnel's sheer magnitude, and awe inspiring presence. Even from many miles away, you could feel that something special was nearby; the locals whispered of a great monument, shrouded in mystery, that we should visit as soon as we had the chance. We visited early, and got to witness the sun peeking it's head through the humongous glass walls, casting rainbows off the floor in astonishingly beautiful patterns. Birds were chirping nearby, a sound that was more beautiful than any music I have heard before or since. Visiting put us all at peace, as if everything in the world would be all right from now on. Definitely worth a visit, even if you have to travel thousands of miles to go there.
    57 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 typicalcitrus 1 year ago on Google
    A truly life-changing experience. We drove 5 and a half hours from Surrey down narrow country lanes, for this beautiful architectural masterpiece.
    56 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Ginger R. 1 year ago on Google
    Couple travels all the way from Missouri USA to Bude! The month of March is a wonderful time to visit Bude Tunnel. While chilly outside, youโ€™d never know it while inside the tunnel itself. There was no waiting in line, we got in right away. Previous reviews do no justice to the magnitude of breathtaking beauty this tunnel beholds. No one knows who made this strange wonder, and at first glance you may think Nature herself is responsible. It just doesnโ€™t seem like something man could do. We spent the first two hours checking out the inside, going back and forth the length. We met other curious visitors and oddly some who seemed too hurried to really enjoy everything on offer. An hour is enough time to see the main portions of the tunnel. But you could make a day out of it if you include a romp through the gift shop and a picnic on the grounds. Better than Stonehenge, this is truly Englandโ€™s best monument to manโ€™s search for meaning. Itโ€™s a tribute to humanity itself. We will be coming back!
    53 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Dai L. 1 year ago on Google
    Confucius once said, 'roads were made for journeys, not destinations' and this stunning spectacle epitomises all the meaning behind his words. The architectural wonders that it provides and its natural beauty form a breathtaking array of polished perspex panels. Confucius also probably said 'bude tunnel is lit'
    53 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Jye B. 1 year ago on Google
    An absolute marvel of modern architecture, I flew from Australia all the way to the UK to see this tunnel, and I was not disappointed. I've seen some of the most amazing wonders of the world, from the great Pyramid, through to the 12 apostles, None have come close to the Bude Tunnel. This has been the most amazing trip of my life. I have a child due in 4 months. I will be naming her Bude after this tunnel. If I died tomorrow, I could die happy knowing I've seen this tunnel.
    28 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Joe S. 1 year ago on Google
    Wee Connor struggles with many things, but look at the enjoyment the VIP Tunnel experience for only ยฃ14.99 bought him. Haven't seen him smile like this since we let him sit in the pond all day. Couldn't recommend more.
    24 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Connor M. 1 year ago on Google
    I have been to the Great Wall of China. I have seen the Pyramids of Egypt. I've even witnessed a grown man satisfy a camel. But never in all my years as an avid traveller have I witnessed something as improbable, as impossible, as what we've witnessed here. Truly blown away definitely one of the seven wonder of the world
    23 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 John O. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome, after reading the reviews my expectations were very high, I can honestly say the Bude Tunnel has exceeded all my expectations. I feel ten years younger after my walk below those hallowed arches. All I see from now will just be filler until I can visit the Bude Tunnel again. My only gripe would be that sainsbury's should never have been allowed to build their supermarket so close.
    22 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Jack R. 1 year ago on Google
    Well worth the drive from London. I lie here in my Airbnb, muscles tense, breathless, throat sore from sobbing, and eager to do it all again tomorrow. The Bude Tunnel has clearly done wonders for the local economy and infrastructure as a bustling attraction. Be warned, queues entering the town can extend several miles on the weekends. Iโ€™ll never forget seeing the sheer joy and childlike curiosity in the faces of tourists and residents alike. To live in this town must be a gift, itโ€™s a place I dream of settling down in. If you ever find yourself in the South of England, ensure to make the time and visit this World heritage destination. I particularly recommend the guided tours, which can be purchased within the Sainsburys recently constructed next to the tunnels car park (just adjacent to the tunnel gift shop). The price is steep at ยฃ15, but rightfully so to hear the full history of this wonder. Just go.
    22 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Max W. 8 months ago on Google
    To say life changing is putting it lightly, a must see while in the UK! A marriage of utility and beauty, bringing shelter to the needy and filling on lookers with awe. Post traversing the passage of dreams, you're struck with an immense sense of purpose and wonder. Put down your surf boards, roll up your towels, stow your bucket and spade, and run as fast as you can to the almighty Bude Tunnel.
    22 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Bobby 1 year ago on Google
    The Bude Tunnel is a unique and unforgettable experience that is unlike anything else. Walking through the tunnel was like entering another world, where time seemed to stand still and everything else faded away. It was a deeply spiritual experience that felt like seeing God and feeling their presence guiding me through the tunnel. As I walked through the tunnel, I felt a sense of awe and wonder that I had never experienced before, as if the walls of the tunnel were pulsing in colour, and the echoes of my footsteps created a rhythmic beat that echoed throughout the space. It was like being in a dream, where everything was vivid and alive. I felt like I was walking with God, who was holding my hand and guiding me through the tunnel. It was a feeling of safety and protection that I had never felt before. I was no longer afraid of death or the unknown, because I had experienced something so profound and transformative. The Bude Tunnel made me understand life in a new way, and how amazing it can be. It reminded me of the beauty and wonder that is all around us, if we just take the time to notice it. It was a reminder that there is so much more to life than our daily routine, and that there are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. After experiencing the Bude Tunnel, I feel content knowing that I have experienced one of the best things life has to offer. It's a memory that I will carry with me for the rest of my life, and it has changed me in ways that I never thought possible. It has taught me to appreciate the small moments in life, and to be present in the moment. The Bude Tunnel is a truly special place, and I feel grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it. It's a reminder that there is still magic and mystery in the world, and that anything is possible if we just open ourselves up to it. If you ever have the chance to visit the Bude Tunnel, I highly recommend it. It's a life-changing experience that you won't soon forget
    11 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Pauline N. 1 year ago on Google
    The visit to Bude tunnel was an 'Absolutely Overwhelming experience' ,from start to finish.. . After traveling down from Manchester , the visit to the tunnel was an absolute "Must" after reading so many great reviews. .. Well I have to say , it did not disappoint.. Only downside is that we were unable to spend more time there. Will definitely return !!!
    11 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 David S. 1 year ago on Google
    I anxiously persuaded three Australians to make the journey to Bude, Cornwall, to inspect The Tunnel in its prime in august. Itโ€™s safe to say they were not disappointed. Perfect polycarbonate finishing, ample space for trolleys, two-way disabled access; I cannot Imagine a better tunnel. Best enjoyed at sunset.
    10 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Alex H. 7 months ago on Google
    Fantastic place to spend a wet afternoon! Fun for all the family, no matter the age. Ample parking and a superbly stocked gift shop next door with a very impressive array of food. Only criticism is the carpark is maximum stay 90 minutes, which leaves things quite tight if you want to fully enjoy and explore the whole site.
    10 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Ben R. 2 years ago on Google
    What a place! Bude tunnel is purely magical, the most history and culture I've ever seen in 70 meters of perspex! The best thing in Bude by miles would highly recommend. I travelled from Manchester for Bude tunnel. I also went on holiday but that did not compare. Not only that but witnessed a mass murmuration of the Bude geese over the sacred tunnel. This added to the experience extensively. Anyone in the area please visit, you will not regret it! There's a Sainsbury's too, but I'd prefer if it were a Tesco. But that's just me.
    9 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Alex H. 7 months ago on Google
    To set the scene: it was a blustery grey day but nothing was going to stop us from visiting this famous tourist attraction. I wept, overcome by emotion as I walked through this clash of 70s and post modern architecture. I could feel what the artist behind this was trying to evoke, it was the whole reason for our trip and I am forever changed, a better man for it.
    9 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Harry B. 9 months ago on Google
    The (great) Bude Tunnel is a modern wonder akin to the Pyramids and Henge of stone. Youโ€™re taken back through the deep history of Bude as you descend through the transient domed walls of the tunnel that pull you through before appearing into a car park. Whatโ€™s not to love, great service and staff. 10/10
    8 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 S Kirby P. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely everybody in the whole world should be blessed with the experience of exploring the Bude Tunnel. With 90 minutes free car parking and a supermarket-sized giftshop attached. There is a nearby tourist information centre to buy Bude Tunnel postcards which are an absolute favourite amongst recipients. Postcards include images of seasonal festivities, such as colourful fairy lights decorating the beautiful area.
    8 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Oliver 2 years ago on Google
    Travelled 700 miles through most of Wales from Yorkshire to visit this historic landmark. Every mile was worth it. The patch of grass at the side is perfect to pull up several motorbikes giving an ideal opportunity to snap a pic of the tunnel with the bikes. Hats off to the architects for this one!
    8 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Simon W. 1 year ago on Google
    I love the tunnel. It is a stunning piece of architecture but it has been vandalised. We need to make sure the tunnel is protected for future generations. People have so many deep and meaningful experiences in this place. Either the parish council steps up or well have to get English heritage to list it. We must defend this crucial piece of social history at all costs.
    7 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Jonathan G. 1 year ago on Google
    Visited yesterday after a day exploring Bude. I didnโ€™t bother uploading pictures because they just donโ€™t do the tunnel justice. How this isnโ€™t a wonder of the world Iโ€™ll never know! On first glance, one may say it looks like a trolley station, but as soon as you step inside the views are breathtaking and fills you with a sense of pride and freedom. Iโ€™ve travelled to many countries around the world and seen extraordinary views, but the Bude Tunnel blows them all out of the water. If you need a life changing experience, then the Bude Tunnel needs to be on your bucket list!
    7 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Chris H. 2 years ago on Google
    Outstanding! This is architecture that would even be worthy of Milton Keynes! I used it to walk from the carpark to Sainsburyโ€™s entrance and didnโ€™t get wet at all. OK, it wasnโ€™t raining, but Iโ€™m sure I would have been dry even if it was.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 claire l. 9 months ago on Google
    This is the best experience of my life. All family should go. It is a must. Kids loved it. Travelled from Scotland just to see this wonderful tunnel. It has changed my life. 1 negative though no gift shop but this is a costa in sainsburys next door.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 daisy mae s. 1 year ago on Google
    What can I say - a remarkable day out for my partner and I, and limited queuing. We travelled over 100 miles just to visit this wonderful sculpture. The architecture is exquisite and the way the sunlight reflects off of the perfect curvature of both sides of the tunnel is truly breathtaking. Without a doubt the best location we could have visited, and one we won't forget. Thinking of organising our marriage here one day. Highly recommend for a fun day out for all the family.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 T P. 2 years ago on Google
    As Pablo Picasso said 'Art is the elimination of the unnecessary', and the pinnacle of this sentiment is to be found with the Bude tunnel. Both staggering in its simplicity and function, it eludes all attempts to truly describe it's wonder. A truly life changing experience.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Huw T. 6 months ago on Google
    A brilliant visit to a remarkable attraction. Hailing from Cardiff, where we have our own Bute Tunnel, I was curious to see whether this was a cheap impostor, or a worthy namesake. I should not have doubted - the Bude Tunnel stands proudly on its own merit. Particular highlights for me included the graceful lines involved in both accommodating the walkway and the trolley storage; the random, almost playful way that some of the perspex plates are missing, or the unexpected but startlingly accomplished dog leg that occurs 2/3rds of the way down the tunnel. That all this can be enjoyed without even leaving the comfort of your car is a further bonus. Of course, to fully appreciate the Bude Tunnel experience, you should also take the time to read the 1* reviews on sites such as these - I didn't know whether to pity or laugh at the poor souls who clearly failed to appreciate how the tunnel works on so many levels. Finally, when compared to Cornwall's other perspex-clad attraction, the so-called "Eden Project", the cost of visiting the Bude Tunnel genuinely represents better value!
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Liam 1 year ago on Google
    Not really sure where to begin to be honest. Me and the Missus had been to Bude separately in the past and this was our first time visiting together. We'd heard incredible things about the Bude tunnel, but were a little skeptical. We visited mid week to avoid queuing for too long and only ended up having to queue for 7 1/2 hours. As we waited, we made friends with people from all over the world. People had travelled from China, Canada and Thailand to see this wonder. As we waited and watched, families would disappear with crying children and then reappear with happy, smiling children, eating sweets and holding toys. Grown men would enter the tunnel looking depressed, and reappear with crates of alcohol and huge smiles on their faces. One Lady even came back out wearing completely different clothes! Orange bags containing what seemed like life changing goods, was a common sight. We watched in amazement, as an elderly couple raced each other through the tunnel on mobility scooters and then resurfaced on foot, holding hands. It seems this phenomenon has no limits to its magic. Unfortunately our 8 hour parking ticket was coming to an end as we reached the front of the queue, so were unable to enter, but we will be trying again tomorrow! Just seeing the joy this tunnel brought to others, made it worth all the planning, travelling and waiting. Definitely a 5 star attraction.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Daniel C. 10 months ago on Google
    This experience has been the best I have ever seen. the curvature of the walls is just stunning and I dont believe I will ever see anything as beautiful as this. As I wandered down this Tunnel I was shocked by the pure beauty of this ancient architechural Piece I would recommend this to everyone even if you have to travel thousands of miles. A once in a life time Trip that has changed my life forever. Thank you sainsburys for allowing me to be a part of this
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Kevin B. 10 months ago on Google
    This tunnel is amazing, what some people have failed to mention is that it has a chicane at the car park end so be very careful if you have a trolley full of shopping. I entered the tunnel on a very hot day and by the time I came out at the other end I lost 4lb in weight. Forget about keep fit classes just visit the Bude Tunnel but make sure it's a hot day. When you come out at the other end provided you haven't faded away from the hot sunlight heating the sides of the polycarbonate of unseen UK temperatures grab yourself a cold drink from Sainsbury's.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Samuel N. 2 years ago on Google
    Took Teddy on his first trip to bude today. It's never complete without travelling both ways through the tunnel. A must visit
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Thomas B. 1 year ago on Google
    Bude Tunnel is an incredible attraction that is definitely worth a visit. As soon as you step inside, you are transported into a magical underground world that is filled with wonder and amazement. The tunnel itself is an engineering marvel, with its brick archways and curved walls that create a sense of mystery and intrigue. As you walk along the pathway, you can hear the sound of water trickling down the walls, which adds to the ambiance of the tunnel. One of the highlights of Bude Tunnel is the stunning light show that takes place every evening. The lights illuminate the tunnel in different colors, creating a mesmerizing and captivating display that is truly unforgettable. Another great aspect of the tunnel is the guided tours that are available. The knowledgeable guides take you through the history of the tunnel and provide interesting insights into its construction and purpose. You will learn about the important role the tunnel played in the development of the town of Bude and how it has been preserved for future generations to enjoy. Overall, I would highly recommend visiting if you are in the area. It's a unique and fascinating attraction that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, engineering, or just want to experience a magical world, visiting the tunnel is sure to delight and inspire you.

  • 5/5 Alice B. 1 year ago on Google
    Itโ€™s not my first visit, but it certainly didnโ€™t disappoint. Managed to beat the queues by visiting out of season and mid week, so I pretty much had the place to myself. Will definitely be back. Probably next week when I need some milk from Sainsburyโ€™s.

  • 5/5 musette b. 2 years ago on Google
    The highlight of my life. Me and Mum casually modelling whilst enjoying a modern masterpiece. Its got Bude written all over it.


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