Perched majestically overlooking the picturesque expanse of Bude Bay, the Storm Tower, affectionately dubbed the ‘Pepperpot’ by locals, stands as an enduring symbol of Bude’s rich maritime history.
Designed by the visionary architect George Wightwick in 1835, at the behest of Sir Thomas Acland, its purpose was dual-fold: to serve as a sanctuary for the coastguard and to add a touch of architectural splendour to the coastal landscape.
Drawing inspiration from the classical grandeur of the ‘Temple of the Winds’ in Athens, Wightwick fashioned this iconic edifice into an octagonal masterpiece. Its imposing presence was further accentuated by three granite steps leading to the entrance on its eastern facade, where the cardinal points of the compass were intricately carved into the structure, serving as a testament to both its practical and ornamental significance.
However, the relentless forces of coastal erosion, ever gnawing at the shores of Compass Point, necessitated the tower’s relocation. Thus, in 1881, it was painstakingly moved inland. Interestingly at this point, the orientation of the rebuilt storm tower was slightly out of alignment with the points of the compass, to maintain a clear view of the Coastguard station. Some time after this point, a telephone line was also installed (the post can still be seen), and one of the country’s first Coastguard telephones became operational.
Fast forward 140 years, and once again, the Storm Tower found itself in need of relocation. Recognising its historical value, the decision was made to preserve this architectural gem for generations to come. In a collaborative effort fuelled by a shared commitment to heritage conservation, funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, public crowdfunding initiatives, as well as contributions from Cornwall Council and Bude-Stratton Town Council, made the ambitious relocation project possible.
Under the skilled stewardship of specialist contractors Sally Strachey Historic Conservation, work commenced in early 2023 to transport the tower 100 meters inland, ensuring its continued presence as a beacon of Bude’s past.
The grand reopening of the tower took place on the 26th March 2024, with a time capsule sealed securely into the floor.
Opening Ceremony Leaflet
Images of the Storm Tower from the archives
