Attractions and Places To See around Poundstock - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Poundstock, a civil parish and hamlet on the north coast of Cornwall, England, offer a blend of historical sites and natural beauty. Located approximately 4 miles south of Bude, it provides access to the Cornish coastline and countryside. The area features dramatic coastal scenery, ancient woodlands, and significant historical landmarks. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes, from rugged cliffs to serene beaches.
Best attractions and places to see around Poundstock
- The most…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Compass Point Storm Tower
Highlight • Monument
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Crackington Haven Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Bude Canal
Highlight • River
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Widemouth Bay
Highlight • Beach
Here you will find a cafe, an ice-cream & snack shack, plenty of surf schools and public toilets. …
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Duckpool Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Tips from the Community
Southwest Coast Path, Hartlandquey to Morganporth. Many ascents and descents. The weather was also challenging.
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Beautiful little beach. You can ride your bike right onto the beach.
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The southern side of the beach looks a little risky due to the landslide but the beach is sandy with little submerged rocks
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Small beach away from the crowds a free car park and just below Morwenstow (GCHQ)
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The manor of Crackington was recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) when it was one of several manors held by Berner from Robert, Count of Mortain. There was half a hide of land and land for 3 ploughs. There were 1 plough, 2 serfs, 6 smallholders, 4 acres of underwood, 20 acres of pasture, 4 cattle, 3 pigs and 25 sheep. The value of the manor was 10 shillings though it had formerly been worth £1 sterling. Until the nineteenth century, Crackington Haven was a small port similar to many others on the north coast of Cornwall. Limestone and coal were imported and slate and other local produce were exported. After the railways reached the district in 1893 the village could be reached more easily (from the North Cornwall Railway station at Otterham) so holidaymaking became more common.
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Three routes into or out - all with steep sections. The coastal route takes you to high cliff at about 850 feet above sea level and up to 1 in 3 gradient. Enjoy.
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The tower has gotten so close to the cliffs at this point and is now "at risk of falling". It is scheduled to be moved backwards from mid-2023.
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Hold your nose!! Needs to be renamed the p..s stop/tower
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Poundstock?
Poundstock is rich in history. You can visit the remarkably well-preserved Poundstock Gildhouse, a Grade I listed building that served as a community hub since the 1300s. Nearby, St. Winwaloe's Church features medieval architecture, a 13th-century font, and intriguing wall paintings. For a glimpse into a medieval manor, explore the turf-covered foundations of Penhallam Manor.
Are there any notable natural attractions or viewpoints around Poundstock?
Absolutely. Poundstock boasts dramatic coastal scenery. You can visit High Cliff, the tallest cliff along Cornwall's coastline, offering breathtaking views. Millook Haven is known for its unique chevron-folded cliffs and honeycomb reefs. Don't miss the Compass Point Storm Tower, also known as the 'Tower of the Winds,' perched high on the cliffs with panoramic sea views.
Which beaches are recommended for visitors near Poundstock?
Several beautiful beaches are easily accessible. Duckpool Beach is a wild, rugged cove offering serenity away from crowds. Widemouth Bay is a popular spot for various outdoor activities. Crackington Haven Beach provides a flat resting point between steep inclines, and Millook Beach is a wild and romantic cove.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near Poundstock?
Poundstock is an excellent base for outdoor adventures. For hiking, you can explore easy trails like the 'Chevron Cliffs – Millook Haven loop' or the 'Black Rock Beach loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Widemouth Bay – Bude Canal loop'. Mountain bikers have options like the 'Bude Canal loop to Stratton & Grimscott'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the easy hikes, cycling, and MTB guides for the area.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Poundstock area?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Many of the local beaches, like Crackington Haven Beach, offer facilities and space for families. In nearby Bude, you can visit The Venue Bude for ten-pin bowling and a large soft play area, or enjoy a unique swim at Bude Sea Pool. The Bude Canal also offers pleasant walks suitable for families.
What is the best time of year to visit Poundstock?
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Poundstock's coastal paths and natural attractions. Spring is particularly beautiful for visiting Millook Valley Woods when bluebells are in bloom. However, the dramatic coastal scenery can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a unique perspective.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the attractions in Poundstock?
While Poundstock itself is a hamlet, nearby coastal villages and towns offer amenities. Crackington Haven Beach has a cafe and a hotel with refreshments. Widemouth Bay also has options. For a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, the larger town of Bude, just a short drive away, provides numerous choices.
Are there any unique geological features to see in Poundstock?
Poundstock is renowned for its geology. Millook Haven is a prime example, famous for its delicate honeycomb reefs and spectacular chevron-folded cliffs, which are a significant geological formation. High Cliff, composed of black shale, quartz, and sandstone, also showcases the dramatic geological forces at play along the Cornish coast.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Poundstock?
Visitors frequently praise the area's natural beauty and tranquility. Many appreciate the serenity and solitude offered by places like Duckpool Beach. The breathtaking sea views from the Compass Point Storm Tower are also a highlight, as is the opportunity to explore historical sites like the Poundstock Gildhouse. The diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to peaceful beaches, are consistently enjoyed.
Is there parking available near the main attractions?
Yes, parking is generally available. For example, Duckpool Beach offers a free car park. Many coastal access points and popular beaches like Widemouth Bay and Crackington Haven Beach also have designated parking areas, though some may be paid during peak season.
Can I visit the Poundstock Gildhouse and what are its opening hours?
The Poundstock Gildhouse is open to visitors on Wednesdays between Easter and the end of October. Entry is free, and volunteers are often on hand to provide tours. It's a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a continuously used medieval community building.
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