Duckpool Beach
A secluded North Cornwall beach offering rugged beauty, rock pools, and stunning coastal path access. A true hidden gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Duckpool Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded North Cornwall beach offering rugged beauty, rock pools, and stunning coastal path access. A true hidden gem.
"A beautiful, quiet, and secluded beach with great views and plenty to explore."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Duckpool Beach is a great spot for dogs to run and play on the sand.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The walk to the beach can be steep, and the terrain is rocky. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secluded Sandy Shores
Main beach area
A quiet, beautiful, and secluded beach perfect for a peaceful escape and family fun.
Rocky Exploration
Tide pools and rock formations
Scramble over rocks, discover sea treasures, and explore fascinating rock pools at low tide.
Coastal Path Views
South West Coast Path
Hike the stunning coast path for spectacular views, connecting to Sandymouth and Bude.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Seclusion
National Trust Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Duckpool Beach is a great spot for dogs to run and play on the sand. 
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The walk to the beach can be steep, and the terrain is rocky. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
☕ Coffee & Cake Stop
Don't miss Jenny's delicious cakes at Hedgerow Coffee & Cake after your hike!
🌊 Wild Swimming Spot
Perfect for a refreshing dip! Enjoy wild swimming in the clear waters of Duckpool.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! Duckpool Beach is a great spot for dogs to run and play on the sand.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The walk to the beach can be steep, and the terrain is rocky. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
☕ Coffee & Cake Stop
Don't miss Jenny's delicious cakes at Hedgerow Coffee & Cake after your hike!
🌊 Wild Swimming Spot
Perfect for a refreshing dip! Enjoy wild swimming in the clear waters of Duckpool.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help keep this beautiful beach pristine by clearing any rubbish you find.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Duckpool Beach is widely praised for its secluded beauty and natural charm, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors love the opportunity for rock pooling, coastal walks, and the general tranquility. Some find the access a bit challenging, and amenities can be limited, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Really beautiful beach. Very quiet. Car park is free,but there is a donation box where u can put money in. Toilets available. You can buy some hot refreshments from the food stands."
Iwona suszczyk
"Duckpool Beach is a very secluded and sheltered beach, offering a variety of landscapes all in one place!
We enjoyed a BBQ and pit fire, alongside some fishing!
P.S, we did a small amount of beach clearing of rubbish and debris!"
Billy Abbott
"This is a beautiful little beach, peaceful with great views. There is a free car park, no overnight parking or camping. It is owned by the National Trust. It is only a half mile walk from Coombe where there are eight Landmark Trust holiday lets. There are public toilets, but they were locked."
Matthew Young (Urban Tiger)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Duckpool Beach is accessible via a walk from the free car park. The path can be steep, so wear appropriate footwear. It's also a popular stop on the South West Coast Path, offering scenic walking routes from nearby areas like Sandymouth and Bude.
Yes, there is a free car park available. Donations are appreciated to help maintain the area. Overnight parking and camping are not allowed.
Due to its rocky terrain and steep access path, Duckpool Beach may be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, there are spots to sit and enjoy the sea views from higher ground.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy exploring the rocks, finding sea treasures, and letting kids run on the sand. Just be mindful of the terrain and supervise children closely.
The nearest town is Bude, which is a short drive or a longer coastal walk away. Bude offers amenities and further attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Duckpool Beach itself is free. There is a free car park, though donations to the National Trust are encouraged to support the upkeep of the site.
Duckpool Beach is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, public toilets may be locked outside of peak hours or seasons.
Yes, Duckpool Beach is owned and managed by the National Trust, ensuring its natural beauty is preserved.
Visitors have enjoyed BBQs and campfires at Duckpool Beach, but always check local regulations and ensure you practice responsible fire safety and clean up thoroughly afterwards.
Public toilets are available at Duckpool Beach, though they may be locked at certain times. It's advisable to check their availability if you require them.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the rugged coastline, the water stream flowing onto the beach, and the dramatic rock formations. The coastal path also offers panoramic views.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Low tide is also ideal for capturing the intricate details of the rock pools.
The unique water stream that meets the sea is a distinctive feature. The dramatic cliffs and the expanse of the beach itself offer plenty of photographic subjects.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check with the National Trust or local authorities regarding drone operation policies before flying.
Duckpool Beach is excellent for landscape photography, nature photography, and capturing coastal scenes. It's also a popular spot for pet photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no permanent restaurants, you might find hot refreshment stands during peak season. For a memorable treat, look for Jenny's delicious cakes from Hedgerow Coffee & Cake nearby.
Yes, Duckpool Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. Pack your own food and enjoy it with the scenic ocean views. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
Bude, the closest town, offers a variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
Some visitors have reported having BBQs at Duckpool Beach. If you plan to do so, ensure you follow all safety guidelines and clean up thoroughly afterwards.
Hedgerow Coffee & Cake is a highly recommended spot near Duckpool Beach, known for its delicious cakes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open sandy areas are perfect for running around and playing. Remember to pack sturdy shoes for the walk down and to supervise children closely due to the rocky terrain and water. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the sand, and don't forget buckets and spades for maximum fun!For a special treat, a stop at Hedgerow Coffee & Cake nearby can be a great way to refuel after a day of exploring.
🐾 Dog Owners
+1 It's a great place for your canine companions to burn off energy. Remember to keep your dog under control, especially if there are other visitors or wildlife around. While dogs are welcome, always be a responsible owner and clean up after your pet. The natural beauty of the beach makes it an enjoyable outing for both you and your furry friend.🚶♀️ Hikers and Coastal Path Enthusiasts
The path offers spectacular coastal views and a chance to experience the rugged beauty of North Cornwall. Be prepared for varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents. The reward for your efforts is not only the scenic walk but also the tranquil beauty of Duckpool Beach itself, a perfect spot to rest and recharge.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Duckpool Beach: A Natural Playground
The presence of a water stream that flows onto the beach adds a unique visual element and a playful spot for children. Beyond the immediate shoreline, Duckpool is a gateway to the renowned South West Coast Path. This offers opportunities for invigorating hikes with breathtaking views of the coastline. Popular routes include walks to Sandymouth and back to Bude, providing a more active way to experience the area's natural beauty.
The combination of secluded beach access, rocky terrain, and coastal path access makes Duckpool a versatile destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.While the beach itself is a natural wonder, remember that it's managed by the National Trust. This means efforts are made to preserve its wild character. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the environment, practice responsible tourism, and help keep the beach clean by taking any litter with them.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
The access to the beach involves a walk, which can be steep and the terrain is rocky. Therefore, wearing sturdy footwear is highly recommended to navigate the path and explore the beach safely.
For a truly local experience, many visitors recommend a stop at Hedgerow Coffee & Cake for delicious treats after a walk or beach visit.
+1 Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this beautiful location for future visitors. 
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