What's On at The Castle
Throughout the year, The Castle, owned by Bude-Stratton Town Council, hosts a diverse programme of events, offering interesting talks, workshops, and activities for all ages. From children to adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating our local heritage.
Our flagship celebration, the Bude & Stratton Heritage Festival, remains the highlight of the year, bringing the community together to explore the history, culture, and stories of the area.
Events take place across The Castle, The Castle Lawn, Bude Library, and The Parkhouse Centre, with most activities free, though some may have a small charge for materials or entry.
Stay up to date with all our events and seasonal programmes by viewing our What’s On Guide as well as following us on social media, either through Facebook or Instagram.
There are three ways to view our ‘FREE‘, What’s On Guide. Full of events and offers at The Castle Heritage Centre this season and beyond. Our programmes are open all year round. For more information see your options below and get in contact if you require assistance on anything at: thecastle@bude-stratton.gov.uk
Art Exhibitions
Be inspired by who is currently exhibiting in one of our two gallery spaces. You can download our latest Art Exhibition brochure for more information about art at The Castle. Check out our online guide above for who is currently exhibiting at The Castle.
Exhibits
Visit our museum exhibits and learn about trains, boats, heroes, heroines and much more as you search The Castle for stories and local tales of Bude and Beyond! Don’t forget to pick up your Castle Detective Activity Sheet for a full family fun filled visit!
Easter at The Castle
Enjoy family activities this holiday. Try the History Detective Activity Sheet (£2 from Café Limelight) and solve clues around the site.
Join Janie for FREE Lawn Games on 7, 9, 14 and 16 April from 11am–12pm.
Bounce & Play Inflatables run on The Castle Lawn on 8 and 15 April from 11am–4pm (small cost, weather dependent). For more information on the inflatables, including if they cancel on the day, please call 07480878555.
Live Music - On The Bandstand
Join us for Live Music at the Castle Bandstand this April 2026 at The Castle Heritage Centre, Bude. Enjoy a range of free performances on The Castle Lawn. Visit our onsite Cafe for a tasty treat and hot drink!
April Line-up:
7 April – John Dunn & Friends (11am–12.30pm)
11 April – Wilder Days (1.30pm–5.30pm)
19 April – Jerry Alleguen (2pm–4pm)
📍 The Wharf, Bude EX23 8LG
🎟 Free entry – everyone welcome.
Plan Your Visit
We do offer room hire and at times this will cause the gallery and exhibit spaces to be unavailable from time to time. If you are planning your visit, you can check our current access for planned room closures on our website.
We will also need to do essential maintenance on the building itself, which may affect room closures, which we will include if needed.
We try to regularly update this information, if you would like to check a date in advance, please email the team at: thecastle@bude-stratton.gov.uk
UPDATED 24 February 2026
Please note that The Willoughby Gallery is a dog-free zone (with the exception of coated assistance dogs). Thank you for your understanding.
FEBRUARY – MAY CLOSURES – The following dates will mean the room will be closed for the duration of the day and not available to the public.
The Willoughby Gallery: 25 Feb, 27 Feb, 14 Mar, 22 Mar, 10 April, 23 April, 24 April, 26 April, 1 May, 2 May & 22 May & 26 May
The Blanchminster Gallery: 26 Feb, 27 Feb, 20 Mar, 25 Mar, 10 April, 26 April, 1 May, 3 May, 22 May, 23 May, 28 May, 29 May & 30 May
Conservatory: 11 May, 23 May, 28 May, 29 May & 30 May
Storm Tower Room: 5 Mar, April, 7 May
Castle and Café Closed: No planned closures at this time.