Beach Walker Rescued After Being Cut Off by Tide Near Bude

A beach walker had to be rescued after becoming cut off by the rising tide between Crooklets Beach and Northcott on Monday 16th March 2026.

Bude Coastguard Rescue Team were paged at 10:25am and tasked by Falmouth Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre following reports that a person had become stranded along the stretch of coast.

Bude RNLI Lifeboat, Hartland Coastguard Rescue Team and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter Rescue 387, based at St Athan in South Wales, were also scrambled to assist.

Casualty Stranded on Rock as Tide Surged

After arriving on the cliffs above the area, the rescue team quickly located the casualty who had climbed onto a rock while the tide continued to rise around them.

According to the team, the walker was “stranded on a rock, surrounded by a surging tide, driven by a 6ft swell and onshore winds”.

Coastguard Rescue Officers then put on their water rescue gear and made their way down to the beach.

Once they had communicated their plan to the casualty, the officers carried out what was described as a “snatch rescue”, recovering the person from the rock and bringing them safely back to the beach through the rising water.

Crew from Bude RNLI Lifeboat provided safety cover while the rescue took place.

Casualty Cold but Uninjured

The casualty was reported to be cold but uninjured.

After being checked over by rescuers, they were assisted back to a place of safety.

Coastguard Issues Safety Reminder

Following the incident, Bude Coastguard Rescue Team reminded people to check conditions carefully before walking along this part of the coastline.

The team said:

“We always recommend checking the weather and tidal conditions before setting out for a walk on the beach, especially in this area. It is possible to walk between Crooklets and Northcott beach, but only during spring tides when the water recedes further, and it is recommended to walk this stretch only on an outgoing tide.”

They also advised walkers to wear suitable clothing, carry a fully charged phone and tell someone where they are going and when they expect to return.

The team added that during periods of large swell and storms, water can quickly surge up the beach and surround people.

“If you happen to see anyone in trouble on the coast, cliffs or sea, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”