Best Places to Surf in the UK

Are you thinking of taking up the most famous water sport in the world? Or, are you just planning your next staycation? I’ve collated the best places to surf in the UK.

In the UK, we’re surrounded by the sea. Nowhere is more than 75 miles away from the water. So, why not make the most of it!

There’s a whole host of water sports that you could try, and none are as famous as surfing! I’ve made a list of some of the best surfing getaways you can go on without even leaving the UK.

If you are avid surfer, then check out these top surfing beaches in the UK…

Which one is your favourite?!

Cornwall

Cornwall is one of the nations favourite surf spots, and it’s no wonder why. With over 300 beaches, most of which cater to beginners and more experienced surfers, you’re spoilt for choice!

If you’re trying surfing for the first time, aim for one of the more popular beaches like Fistral Beach. It may be busier, but it has plenty of opportunities for surf hire and lessons as well as lifeguard cover from Easter to October.

Accommodation Cornwall’s varies depending on the area you choose. From Four-star hotels and cosy Bed and Breakfast’s to farmland camping, there’s something for everyone!

Devon

Another one of the best surfing beaches in the UK is Devon’s.

How could this list be complete without another of the nations favourite surf spots! With beaches like Croyde and Saunton drawing surfers from across the UK and beaches like Woolacombe, which are more suitable for beginners or families, Devon is the perfect surf getaway.

If you fancy a break from surfing, you can always try tackling part of the South West Coast Path for some stunning coastal scenery!

With so many towns right on the shoreline, the accommodation in Devon is fantastic for surfers.

From self-catering accommodation and luxury hotels, there’s plenty of places to stay in Devon. And with an abundance of local pubs and restaurants, you definitely won’t go hungry either!

Scotland

If you like a challenge, you won’t catch a surf in the UK better than in Scotland. You can expect harsh elements, strong winds and waves that are not for the faint of heart! Thurso, the surfing capital of Scotland, plays host to competitions and surfers from across Europe, making it the perfect place for surfing adrenaline junkies!

If you’re visiting during the colder months, then there’s no better place to stay than a highland cottage or even a log cabin where you can cosy up by the fire. One of the best places to go surfing in the UK.

Photo by Jess Vide from Pexels

Isle of Wight

If you want a surfing getaway without the crowds, then there’s no better spot than the Isle of Wight, it really is one of the best surfing beaches in the UK.

With swells of 2 – 5ft and strong rip currents, the bays of this island offer a great challenge for more experienced surfers. Plus, you can quickly drive from one side of the island to the other in an hour, so finding the perfect place to surf is easy!

Don’t let the size of this Island fool you. There’s plenty of accommodation available from local bed and breakfasts, hotels and even glamping!

Wales

Are you looking for a destination that offers excellent waves all year round? Then maybe Wales is the surfing spot for you! With Rhossili beach on the western edge of the Gower Peninsula offering consistent waves small enough for beginners. For those who’re a little more experienced, there’s the Llyn Peninsula which catches the Irish Sea swells on the northern coastline.

With adorable cottages nestled in the Welsh hills and seaside campsites, you’ll have no trouble finding somewhere to lay your head.

Whether you’re a keen surfer or someone who’s picking up the board for the first time, I recommend you try one of these for your next staycation!

Just make sure you’ve got all the essentials before you go. Most surf beaches will offer surf hire, but if you’re looking to buy your own, then there’s nowhere better to get your first board than Wetsuit Centre. If you’re unsure about what wetsuit or board is best for you, then contact a member of their team who’ll be happy to help.

If you on a bigger trip exploring more of Europe check out my guides to France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and United Kingdom.

My Travel Tips and Recommendations

Flights

To book flights, I always use flight search engine Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through Booking.com. I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. 

Travel Insurance

Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner. 

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Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

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Sophie X