About
Duckpool sits at the mouth of the Coombe Valley near Bude, where the river emerges at the top of the beach, giving the place its name. The very tidal beach is lined with pebbles and rocks at the top, with sand exposed at low tide, rock pools and clifftop grasslands strewn with thrift and squill. History lies close at hand: a Romano-British forge and the medieval port for Kilkhampton were found on the beach in the 1980s, anti-tank blocks from before the Second World War dot the shore, and King William's Bridge of 1836 crosses the river at the top of the access road. Dogs are welcome all year under control, particularly near livestock and cliff edges. The Trust's 1-mile Duckpool and steeples walk climbs steeply from the car park to the coast path. Reviewers describe a quiet, secluded pebbly beach; there is no lifeguard, and currents are strong. Tips from visitors: the coffee van and toilets are seasonal.
Check today’s timesSee all times
- CountrysideDawn to dusk
Opening times may change at short notice.
The countryside and car park are open dawn to dusk; no overnight parking or camping.
Toilets open April to October; the accessible toilet needs a RADAR key.
Duckpool has no lifeguard. Currents are strong and the cliffs are prone to rock falls; the nearest beach with seasonal cover is Sandymouth.
PricingFreeFree for all visitors
Free entry for everyone
Entry
Free for everyone
Pricing details
The beach is free for everyone.
ParkingFree parkingFree for all visitors
No charge for anyone.
Parking details
The Trust car park at Duckpool is free, with donations welcomed. It is open dawn to dusk, with no overnight parking or camping.
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Walking routes1 route
Duckpool and steeples walk(opens the full route on the National Trust site)
WalkmoderateDogs, with restrictions1.6 km distance30m–40m to walk
