Taking place as part of Heritage Open Days, The Blacksmith, The Forge & The Canal offers visitors the chance to step inside Fred Staddon’s Forge before following the story of how Bude developed from a busy working port into the town we know today.

The guided walk, led by Matt Thomas as part of the Everyday History Heroes series, will explore the forge, Bude Canal and its historic lock gates, revealing how blacksmithing played an important role in everyday life.

Fred Staddon spent more than 50 years serving the local community, from shoeing horses and repairing farm machinery to creating ironwork for the canal lock gates and making souvenirs for visitors.

The tour provides a unique glimpse into a bygone era, when the sound of hammer on anvil would have echoed around the canal and wharf, while sailing ships brought goods into Bude.

The free guided tour takes place at 11am, with doors opening at 10.45am, from The Castle Heritage Centre on Monday 14 September, Tuesday 15 September and Wednesday 16 September 2026. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Places are free but must be booked in advance.

Book free tickets by clicking here.