The Old Lifeboat House - Bude Canal

The Old Lifeboat House in Bude stands as a historic maritime landmark, once central to lifesaving operations. Constructed in the late 19th century, it housed lifeboats launched via an innovative inclined slipway system tackling Bude’s fierce tides. Decommissioned after newer facilities were built, the building retains its distinctive stone architecture and location overlooking Summerleaze Beach. It now functions as a museum and community space, preserving artifacts like rescue equipment and boat models. Visitors experience stories of dramatic sea rescues and the courage of local crews. The site symbolizes Bude’s enduring connection to coastal safety and heritage.

The original Lifeboat was housed in a converted Pilchard Store, but in 1863 a new SR lifeboat "Elizabeth Moore Garden 1", came into service along with a new boathouse costing £292. This new boat house was built at the side of the canal.

The old Life boat house was decommisioned in 1923. It has since been converted to Holiday lets, owned by The Brendon Arms - situated overlooking Bude's inner harbour, on the upper wharf of the Boating Canal. The Canal boasts some of the best coarse fishing in the South West and attracts fishermen from all over the country. The Canal is well stocked and maintained by an enthusiastic local fishing association.

The Bude Canal, was engineered by James Green and opened in 1823. The canal sliced through North Cornwall's moorland to carry sea sand and lime inland (a lifeline for acidic soils) - the calcium carbonate rich, was vital fertilizer for Cornwall's barren moorland farms. The canal featured an inclined plane powered by water turbines, dragging tub-boats uphill on rails—like a funicular for freight. Railways undercut costs and by 1891 the canal was in desline with the last commercial boat running in 1911. Restored sections now host otters and kayaks.

The development of the Bude Canal threatened the adjacent wet lands. The wetlands formed naturally, providing habitat for wading birds and rare plants like yellow-horned poppy. Local farmers grazed livestock here informally. In the post war period partial drainage of the area led to declining species bio-diversity, sparking grassroots advocacy.

In the 1970', the area became a Local Nature Reserve after campaigns highlighted its ecological value, with restoration of the marshes to combat flooding. Froom the 2000s the area has been managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust - with a focus on habitat restoration for migratory birds. The land is now a rich diverse habitat, supporting 200+ plant species, including orchids. It is also a breeding ground for lapwings and a home to snipe and otters.