Heron on the Bude Canal
PoE 4 Bude loop a 6.5 miles
PoE 4 Bude loop b 3.5 miles
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The tow path of Bude Canal rapidly leaves the town and any associated thoughts behind. It is a peaceful stroll along level land with a wide variety of water fowl. Numerous moorhen, the occasional heron, a family of swans are all residents of this reclaimed water way.
At Helebridge the route turns inland over fields and rises gently before falling seaward to Widemouth Bay. The skyscape opens up as these fields are reached and it's not unusual to see buzzards circling above. A broad view of the local coastal area can be enjoyed as the land descends.
The route kisses the northen edge of Widemouth Bay before heading back to Bude. Part of the South West Coast Path in this section runs alongside the coastal road, giving it an unusually hurried feel. Beyond that, the visible cliff side is peppered with the burrows of some wild animal or bird and the path undulates on to Compass Point.
The canal crossing is by lock gates which have recently been restored.