Surfing in the UK has been steadily growing in popularity. There are many great beaches and places suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced professionals. The UK has 11,000 miles of coastline, which offers a wide range of holiday opportunities.
The waves here might be a little chillier than in other surfing destinations around the world. Still, they’re as perfect as anywhere else. Whether you are a health wellness coach working remotely and looking for new places for practice or a surfing enthusiast planning a vacation, this list will help you out. Maybe travelling is your career, or you just want to try something new. In any case, there are numerous picturesque beaches to see from Scotland to Cornwall.
Together with experts from Jooble, we’ve narrowed down the best locations to catch the waves in the UK.
Best UK surfing destinations
When choosing the location that suits you best, consider the skill level, waves break, accessibility, and infrastructure. Here are the top spots to keep your eye on.
Portrush, County Antrim
Heading to Northern Ireland might be a perfect option for beginners. There are also wilder spots around (the west of Donegal), but it is pretty chill here. Portrush has two main options for surfers – West and East Strand. The waves here are mostly clean because of the offshore winds.
If you’ve only recently started surfing, go to the East Strand as it has smaller waves. You can also get lessons here on the beach. However, Portrush also offers professionals something special too, especially on stormy days.
Cornwall
It is one of the most popular places for surfers as there are many exciting options. The top Cornish beaches include:
- Sennen Cove is perfect for advanced surfers with its consistent beach breaks. It is located in a tiny village that has amazing views.
- Perranporth is a more crowded choice with options for all levels of skill.
- Porthleven with great waves and right-handed barrels. Be careful of a rocky bottom and note that it is best for advanced surfers.
- Fistral Beach is a beautiful location for longboarding in summer and strong waves in winter. It is one of the well-recognized destinations as the British National Surf Championship happens here.
Cornwall also offers excellent infrastructure, stunning nature, and other types of entertainment and outdoor activities. There is something for everyone here.
Saltburn, North Yorkshire
It has been one of the UK surfing centres for quite some time. Saltburn delivers constant mellow waves and many training options for beginners and intermediate athletes. For instance, Saltburn Surf School has welcomed students since 1983. A good spot for surfers of any skill level, it delivers various waves and reef breaks.
Porth Neigwhl, North Wales
If you want to experience Hell’s Mouth, head to Llŷn peninsula. With a stretch of sand and a small reef, it is one of the exciting destinations to add to your holiday list. It welcomes intermediate and experienced surfers as well. Beginners can also enjoy their time here, but it is better not to do surf alone.
Despite its popularity, you won’t feel crowded as the beach is four miles long. So there is enough space for everyone.
Devon
There are two main spots here – Woolacombe and Croyde. The first one is beginner-friendly, and the second one is suitable for advanced and intermediate surfers. There is a significant infrastructure also, but the town is relatively small. The Woolacombe waves deliver mellow breaks. Croyde, on the contrary, brings impressive peaks.
Llangennith, Gower Peninsula
The Gower is another hot spot for the Welsh surfing community. Llangennith is the most popular beach here for good reason. It offers:
- A three-mile stretch of golden sand
- Consistent waves
- Suitable for all levels of skill and longboarders
On a sunny day, it can get busy, but it is still possible to find a more secluded area. And the coastal scenery here is one of a kind. However, note that the water here is cold, so prepare accordingly.
Pease Bay, Berwickshire
If you want to combine surfing with holiday activities in Edinburgh, this is the spot to go. It has been beloved by surfers for decades because of its proximity to the city. The breaks here are decently mellow, and there are some excellent wells to enjoy.
But it can be pretty shallow when the tide is low, so be careful. The waters here are warmest in autumn (about 14C). And there is a caravan park on the beach, so you can stay or camp there and enjoy waking up to beautiful scenery.
Whether you are a learner or a pro, the UK has lots to offer regarding surfing. Choose one of these top locations for your next vacation.
Best-selling surfboards
Need a new surfboard? Check out our list of best-selling surfboards on Amazon.
- Foam Board , Beginners Surfboards
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Last update on 2022-08-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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