With its diverse coastline, England has long been a hidden gem for surfers. While it may not have the year-round warm waters of more tropical destinations, it offers an array of surf experiences, from powerful Atlantic swells to gentle beginner waves.
The best surf spots in England cater to all levels, offering both well-known beaches and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you're an experienced surfer or a beginner, England's surf culture and coastal beauty provide the perfect backdrop for your next surf adventure.
Table of Contents
- Top Surfing Spots in England
- North West England
- Croyde Bay, Devon
- Woolacombe, Devon
- South West England
- Fistral Beach, Cornwall
- Sennen Cove, Cornwall
- North East England
- Cayton Bay, North Yorkshire
- Saltburn, North Yorkshire
- Hidden Surf Gems in England
- Porthcurno, Cornwall
- Bamburgh, Northumberland
- Best Surf Spots for Beginners
- Best Time to Surf in England
- Surf Safety and Etiquette in England
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Top Surfing Spots in England
England's coastline is varied, offering a mix of beach breaks, point breaks, and reef breaks. Here are the best surf spots in England divided by region.
North West England
1. Croyde Bay, Devon
Croyde Bay is not only one of the best surf spots in England but it is also known for its challenging waves.
Known for its powerful, fast waves, Croyde is a favourite among experienced surfers. The beach break here offers both left and right-handers, making it an exciting spot for those looking for a challenge.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Croyde Bay is best surfed at low tide when the waves are most powerful. The waves can reach up to 6 feet, especially during the winter months
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced, as the waves can be unforgiving and challenging
2. Woolacombe, Devon
Woolacombe offers a more relaxed surf experience compared to Croyde. This beach is ideal for longboarders and those looking for a more leisurely surf. With two miles of beach breaks, there’s plenty of space for everyone.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Woolacombe offers consistent waves year-round, with the best conditions occurring during mid-tide. The waves are generally softer, making it a popular spot for families and beginners
- Skill Level: All levels, but particularly good for beginners and intermediate surfers
The North West isn’t just about Croyde Bay and Woolacombe. The region is also home to some lesser-known yet equally impressive hidden surfing gems in the North West. These spots offer a more secluded experience away from the crowds.
South West England
3. Fistral Beach, Cornwall
Fistral Beach consistently ranks among the best surf spots in England, drawing surfers from all over the world.
Located in Newquay, Cornwall, it’s a hotspot for both local and international surfers. The beach hosts numerous surf competitions and is considered the heart of England's surf culture.
-
Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Fistral offers consistent waves throughout the year, with peak conditions in autumn and winter. The waves can range from 2 to 8 feet, depending on the swell
- Skill Level: Suitable for all levels, but the northern end of the beach is recommended for advanced surfers
4. Sennen Cove, Cornwall
Sennen Cove, at the tip of Cornwall, is a swell magnet. You can usually find a good surf here when the waves are flat elsewhere.
The beach offers a variety of waves, making it a great spot for both beginners and more experienced surfers.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Sennen Cove is best surfed at low tide, with waves ranging from 2 to 6 feet. The surf can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to check local reports
- Skill Level: All levels, with smaller waves near the car park for beginners
While Fistral Beach and Sennen Cove are well-known, the surfing beaches in the South West of England have much more to offer.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the waves or the beauty of the Cornish coast, this region is a surfer’s paradise.
North East England
5. Cayton Bay, North Yorkshire
Cayton Bay is a hidden gem in North Yorkshire, offering some of the best waves in the region. Known for its powerful and hollow waves, it’s a spot that experienced surfers will appreciate.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Cayton Bay is best surfed during low to mid tide. The waves can be strong and fast, particularly after a storm
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced due to the power of the waves and the rocky seabed
6. Saltburn, North Yorkshire
Saltburn is a classic surf spot in North East England. It has a long surf history and is home to a thriving local surf community.
The beach offers gentle waves, making it a great spot for those new to surfing.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Saltburn offers consistent waves throughout the year, with the best conditions in autumn. The waves are generally smaller, perfect for beginners
- Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate, ideal for learning and improving your surf skills
The North East of England is rich in surf culture, with Cayton Bay and Saltburn leading the way.
Don’t miss out on other surf spots in the North East that are waiting to be explored, each offering unique challenges and beautiful coastal views.
Hidden Surf Gems in England
While the best surf spots in England are well-known, there are plenty of hidden gems that offer excellent waves without the crowds.
These hidden surf spots in England are perfect for surfers looking for solitude and adventure.
1. Porthcurno, Cornwall
Porthcurno is a stunning beach near Land’s End. It’s not as popular as some of the other Cornish beaches, but it offers beautiful waves and a tranquil setting.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Porthcurno works best during mid-tide. The waves are clean and range from 2 to 5 feet, offering a peaceful surf experience
- Skill Level: Intermediate, as the beach can experience strong rips
2. Bamburgh, Northumberland
Bamburgh is located near the Scottish border in the far north of England. It’s known for its dramatic castle backdrop and less crowded waves.
The surf here is consistent, but the water is cold, so come prepared.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Bamburgh is best surfed during autumn when the swells are strongest. The waves are often small but well-formed
- Skill Level: All levels, but the cold water requires good surfing equipment for cold water
If you’re interested in discovering more hidden gems in the UK, check out our blog on surfing spots in Wales for more exciting and less crowded destinations.
Best Surf Spots for Beginners
England offers several beginner-friendly surf beaches that are perfect for those new to the sport. These spots provide gentle waves, surf schools, and a welcoming atmosphere for learners.
1. Newquay, Cornwall
Newquay, often referred to as the surf capital of the UK, is one of the best surf spots in England for beginners.
With numerous surf schools in England, it’s easy to find lessons and gear rentals. The waves are consistent and manageable, perfect for beginners.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Newquay offers consistent waves, with the best conditions for beginners during mid-tide. The waves are generally small and easy to ride
- Skill Level: Beginner, with plenty of opportunities to progress
2. Woolacombe, Devon
Woolacombe is another excellent spot for beginners. The beach is long, with plenty of room to practice without feeling crowded. The waves are gentle, making it an ideal learning environment.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Surfing Conditions: Woolacombe is best surfed during mid-tide. The waves are soft and forgiving, perfect for learning
- Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate, with lessons available from local surf schools
If you plan to explore beyond England, don’t miss out on these surfing beaches in Scotland which are equally impressive.
Best Time to Surf in England
The best time to surf in England depends on your experience level and what you’re looking for in a surf trip.
The seasons affect the surfing conditions in England significantly.
Winter (November – March)
Winter offers the most powerful swells, but the conditions can be harsh.
The cold water and strong winds require proper surfing equipment for cold water, including a thick wetsuit, gloves, and boots.
Spring (April – May)
Spring brings consistent waves and milder weather. The beaches are less crowded, making it an excellent time to explore the hidden surf spots in England.
However, the water remains cold, so a good wetsuit is still necessary.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is the best time to surf in England for beginners. The waves are smaller and more manageable, and the water is warmer.
It’s also a great time for family-friendly surf destinations in England, where both adults and children can enjoy the surf.
Autumn (September – October)
Autumn is often considered the best season for surfing in England. The summer crowds have gone, the water is still relatively warm, and the swells are consistent.
This season offers the best balance of good waves and favourable England surfing weather.
If you're curious about other surf spots, don't miss our blog on surf destinations in Northern Ireland for more exciting options.
Surf Safety and Etiquette in England
Surfing in England is rewarding, but following safety guidelines and respecting England’s surf culture is important.
1. Respect the Locals
Always respect fellow surfers and the locals. Follow the rules of the line-up and avoid dropping in on someone else’s wave.
2. Know Your Limits
Choose a surf spot that matches your skill level. The top surfing beaches in England offer a variety of conditions, so pick a spot where you feel comfortable. If in doubt, book a lesson with one of the many surf schools in England.
3. Use the Right Gear
The surfing conditions in England can be challenging, especially during the colder months.
Make sure you have the appropriate surfing equipment for cold water, including a thick wetsuit, boots, gloves, and a hood.
4. Protect Your Ears
Consider using earplugs or ear sprays containing mineral oil to safeguard your hearing.
The benefits of mineral oil in these sprays help form a protective barrier, preventing water from entering the ear canal and reducing the likelihood of infections.
5. Surf with a Buddy
Always surf with a buddy, especially if you’re heading to more isolated hidden surf spots in England. It’s safer and more fun.
To surf with confidence, check out our comprehensive guide on water safety tips for surfing.
Conclusion
England’s coastline offers some of the most diverse and exciting surf spots in Europe.
The best surf spots in England provide a mix of challenges for experienced surfers and gentle waves for beginners.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a powerful wave or the tranquillity of a hidden beach, England has something for everyone.
For those interested in venturing further, exploring other top surf spots in the UK is highly recommended for their unique surf experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best months for surfing in England?
The best months for surfing in England are typically from September to November and March to May.
The swells are more consistent during these periods, and the weather is generally more favourable.
Autumn (September to November) is often considered the peak surf season, offering powerful waves and fewer crowds.
Spring (March to May) provides reliable surf with milder temperatures, making it another excellent time to hit the waves.
2. Is England good for beginner surfers?
Yes, England is a great destination for beginner surfers.
There are many beginner-friendly surf beaches across the country, particularly in Cornwall and Devon.
These spots offer gentle, manageable waves and numerous surf schools in England where beginners can learn the basics and build their confidence.
3. What is the most popular surf spot in England?
Fistral Beach in Newquay, Cornwall, is widely regarded as the most popular surf spot in England.
Known for its consistent waves and vibrant surf culture, Fistral Beach attracts surfers from all over the world and hosts several major surf competitions throughout the year.
4. Do you need a wetsuit to surf in England?
Yes, a wetsuit is essential for surfing in England due to the colder water temperatures.
The type of wetsuit you need depends on the season. During the winter months, a thick wetsuit (5/3mm or 4/3mm), along with boots, gloves, and a hood, is recommended to stay warm.
In the summer, a lighter wetsuit (3/2mm) may suffice, but a wetsuit is still necessary to protect against the cold water.
