SW Coast Path walking from Phillips Point to Bude
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Compass Point Storm Tower Pepper Pot

4.7
·244 reviews·, United Kingdom

Experience breathtaking coastal vistas and a touch of history at Compass Point, a scenic spot offering dramatic views and a rewarding climb.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for sunset views

CrowdMedium
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SW Coast Path walking from Phillips Point to Bude

Compass Point Storm Tower Pepper Pot

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for sunset views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience breathtaking coastal vistas and a touch of history at Compass Point, a scenic spot offering dramatic views and a rewarding climb.

4.7
(244 reviews)

"Stunning views and a great place to start your walk along the cliffs."

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TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be steep and grassy; good shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.

🚶‍♀️ Consider a Walking Stick

The inclines can be challenging; a walking stick offers extra support on the uphill climbs.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Coastal Views

Panoramic Coastal Views

Breathtaking vistas of the coastline, especially magical during sunset. Perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

The Original Storm Tower Site

The Original Storm Tower Site

Explore the location where the historic Storm Tower once stood, offering a glimpse into the area's past and resilience.

Cliff Path Walk

Cliff Path Walk

An invigorating walk along the South West Coast Path, connecting to Bude beach and Summerleaze.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Terrain

Be prepared for a steep climb, especially if you're walking from the harbor. Sturdy footwear is a must, and a walking stick can be a lifesaver on the grassy paths. The views are worth the effort, but always be mindful of cliff edges.

Storm Tower's Past and Present

The original 'Storm Tower' has been relocated due to coastal erosion. While the current monument may be in disrepair, the historical significance and the stunning coastal views remain a major draw for visitors.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect for sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear mornings
Why
Crisp, bright coastal scenery
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be steep and grassy; good shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable walk. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Consider a Walking Stick

The inclines can be challenging; a walking stick offers extra support on the uphill climbs. Reddit

⚠️ Mind the Cliff Edges

Spectacular views come with risks. Stay well back from the cliff edges for your safety. Reddit

📸 Sunset Spectacle

The views at sunset are particularly stunning, making it a prime time for photography. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be steep and grassy; good shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable walk. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Consider a Walking Stick

The inclines can be challenging; a walking stick offers extra support on the uphill climbs. Reddit

⚠️ Mind the Cliff Edges

Spectacular views come with risks. Stay well back from the cliff edges for your safety. Reddit

📸 Sunset Spectacle

The views at sunset are particularly stunning, making it a prime time for photography. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(244 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Compass Point for its stunning coastal views, particularly at sunset, and its suitability as a starting point for cliff walks. The challenging but rewarding uphill trek from Bude is often mentioned. Some note that the monument itself is in disrepair, but the natural beauty and historical significance of the site are still highly valued.

"Lovely cool summer's evening, just perfect for a stroll......
A little off the beaten track if you find your own route, though it always helps if you're a mountain goat at heart.
Great views, especially at sunset. There is plenty of open space, but beware of the cliff edges. A tumble will see you an afternoon with the undertaker.
Happy exploring"

Theman Withavan

"Lovely views and this was the original location of the 'Storm Tower' that you can see down the hill. Coastal erosion meant it needed to be relocated. Free to visit."

Elizabeth Baker

"stunning views, and a great place to start your walk along the cliffs. we parked down by the harbour and walked up via the sea lock, it's smooth going under foot all the way (the grass paths are easy to follow) but quite steep in places. i made quite extensive use of my walking stick!"

dahtal michaels

What People Like

Stunning coastal views
Great sunset spot
Invigorating cliff walks

What People Dislike

Monument in disrepair

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Compass Point is accessible via the South West Coast Path. Many visitors park near Bude harbor and walk uphill, which is a steep but rewarding route. Reddit

Parking is available down by Bude harbor, from where you can embark on a walk up to the point. Reddit

Yes, you can walk to Compass Point from Summerleaze beach in Bude, often as part of a longer coastal walk. Reddit

The paths are generally grassy and easy to follow, but can be quite steep in places, especially the ascent from the harbor. Reddit

While Bude is served by public transport, direct access to Compass Point might require a significant walk from the town center or bus stops. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to Compass Point and the surrounding coastal paths is free for all visitors. Reddit

Compass Point is an outdoor natural landmark and is accessible at all times, though daylight hours are best for views and safety. Reddit

There is no entrance fee. The site is part of the public coastline and open to everyone. Reddit

Yes, Compass Point can be visited year-round, but weather conditions can significantly impact the experience and safety. Reddit

The main restriction is to be mindful of safety, particularly regarding cliff edges and the steep terrain. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset offers dramatic light and colors, making it ideal for landscape photography. Clear mornings provide sharp, bright views. Reddit

You can capture sweeping coastal panoramas, dramatic sea views, and the rugged landscape. The historical context of the Storm Tower site also offers unique shots. Reddit

The highest points offer the most expansive views. Experiment with different angles along the cliff path for varied perspectives. Reddit

Yes, the natural beauty of the location makes it easy to capture stunning photos with a smartphone, especially during golden hour. Reddit

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the coastline. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sea and sky. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Compass Point offers a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with nature. The open spaces provide room for children to explore, but constant supervision is essential due to the proximity of cliff edges. Reddit The walk up can be a fun challenge for older kids, and a walking stick might add an element of adventure. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. The connection to Bude beach makes it easy to combine a scenic walk with a fun day by the sea. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Walkers

For seasoned hikers, Compass Point is a great starting or ending point for a segment of the South West Coast Path. The steep ascent from Bude harbor provides a good workout, and the well-trodden paths are generally clear. Reddit Consider extending your walk to explore more of the dramatic coastline or heading down to Summerleaze beach for a refreshing dip. The views are a constant reward for your efforts. Reddit

📸 Photographers

This location is a dream for photographers, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The sweeping coastal vistas, dramatic cliffs, and the historical context of the Storm Tower site offer endless creative possibilities. Reddit Wide-angle lenses are recommended to capture the expansive scenery. Be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to your shots, but also requires securing your equipment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Story of the Storm Tower

The 'Storm Tower' at Compass Point holds a unique place in local history. Originally built to provide shelter and a vantage point, its existence was threatened by the relentless forces of coastal erosion. This natural phenomenon, common along many coastlines, meant the original structure had to be carefully relocated to preserve it.

While the current monument at Compass Point may be in disrepair, its location still signifies the importance of this spot for maritime observation and safety. Visitors can reflect on the resilience of both the landscape and the human efforts to adapt to its changes. The site offers a tangible connection to the past and the ongoing battle between land and sea. Reddit

Exploring the area allows you to appreciate the dramatic scenery that necessitated such a structure, and to understand the dynamic nature of the coastline. It's a reminder of how landscapes evolve and how history is shaped by natural forces.

Navigating the Terrain and Safety

The walk to Compass Point, particularly from Bude harbor, is described as steep but manageable with the right preparation. Visitors often mention the grassy paths, which can be uneven, making sturdy footwear a necessity. For those who find inclines challenging, a walking stick is highly recommended to provide stability and support. Reddit

Safety is paramount when visiting coastal viewpoints. The stunning views from Compass Point come with the inherent risk of cliff edges. It's crucial for all visitors, especially families, to remain a safe distance from the edge at all times. The open spaces offer freedom, but awareness of the surroundings is key to a pleasant and secure experience. Reddit

Combining a visit to Compass Point with a stroll along the South West Coast Path offers a more comprehensive exploration of the area. This path is well-maintained in many sections, but always be prepared for varied terrain and changing weather conditions typical of coastal environments.

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