You don’t have to go all the way to Australia, Hawaii or the Caribbean to catch some gnarly waves when the UK has an awesome range of places to catch swells. It’s interesting to note that you are never more than 80 miles away from the coastline in the UK which makes this island the ideal place to get your fill of surfing and try other water sports too.

You don’t have to go all the way to Australia, Hawaii or the Caribbean to catch some gnarly waves when the UK has an awesome range of places to catch swells. It’s interesting to note that you are never more than 80 miles away from the coastline in the UK which makes this island the ideal place to get your fill of surfing and try other water sports too. Regardless of what sort of conditions you prefer, the UK has a coastline and sea to suit every type of surfer from beginner levels to the more experienced. Check out our run-down of the ultimate spots in the UK to get your surfing adrenaline-filled kicks!
Before you try out one of the following tantalising surfer spots, be sure to add a high quality wetsuit onto your list of things to pack. While England has some top-notch surf, unlike the Mediterranean or Caribbean, the sea is often colder than expected, even during the summer months. Wetsuits work by trapping a thin layer of water against your body, which then heats your body up and keep your warm. Your wave is waiting…
North- East Scotland
The rugged coastline of Caithness is home to Thurso, one of Europe’s best wave-catching spots. Hawaiian surfing champ Love Hodel has even described this place as ‘pretty damned perfect’- if its good enough for him, its good enough for us! Thurso is ideal for expert surfers and is great to try all year round.
South Wales
Llangennith is a very popular place for surfers in Wales, with beach breaks rolling throughout its three mile coastline. While you may need to paddle out further than most places, its notorious for having great waves that aren’t for the faint hearted! If you travel a little further West, Freshwater West is a huge draw for surfers thanks to its massive beach and has one of the most famous reef breaks in Wales.
North Cornwall
Polzeath not only attracts the likes of David Cameron, but is also a big draw for many expert surfers! Polzeath stays pretty consistent in its surf and can provide you with massive swells if the conditions are just right. Harlyn Bay nearby is also great if you’re looking for a change of scenery while in the area.
North Yorkshire
Cayton bay, found nestled in the beautiful, quiet and unspoiled area just south of Scarborough is perfect for year-round surfing. It’s three key locations include the Point, Bunkers and Pump House. The Point is great for experienced surfers, Pump House is ideal for beginners and Bunkers has world class peaks. Also worth noting is the emerging surfing scene in Longsands, Tynemouth.
North Devon
Croyde Bay is quite the surfer’s paradise and is home to the best performance waves in Devon. The challenging swell is perfect for pros. For newbies, why not check out Saunton Beach, which is quieter and a great place to try your hand at longboarding. Putsborough is another great spot to practice the art of surfing in gentle Atlantic waters.