Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) Campaigns Director and keen surfer Andy Cummins reveals his top spots for surfing around the UK coast
1. SENNEN BEACH, CORNWALL
Near Lands End, this is one of the most picturesque beaches in the world, with blue-green seas. It has excellent waves and copes well with a variety of weather conditions.
Photo: Matt Gibson/Shutterstock
2. SALTBURN-BY-SEA, NORTH YORKSHIRE
The beach where I learned to surf will always hold a special place in my heart. The surfing waves are a little slow, perfect for learners and longboarders and there are more extreme waves. There’s a Victorian pier that dissects the beach, and locals regularly ‘shoot the pier’ (surf waves through the pier, taking care to dodge the pier legs).
Photo: Pornpipat Charoenthai/Shutterstock
3. THURSO, SCOTLAND
The most northerly town on the Scottish mainland, Thurso boasts world-class waves. They break over a shallow reef, in the shadow of the Thurso Castle ruins. The beach hosts competitions that attract surfers from around the world.
Photo: Gabriel Robek/Shutterstock
4. BENONE, NORTHERN IRELAND
Benone and Downhill Strands form one of Ireland’s longest beaches stretching for seven miles to Magilligan Point. This beach break is relatively uncrowded compared to other north coast beaches and long lines of swell offer ideal peaks for the beginner or longboader.
Photo: Netfalls – Remy Musser/Shutterstock
5. WHITESANDS BAY, WALES
This sandy beach is near St David’s, within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The beach is beautiful, the water’s (relatively) warm and the surf is great for all abilities.
Photo: Mike Charles/Shutterstock
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