Searching for Waves from London?

When you have that feeling that only wind and waves can quench, it’s quite a thing. surfing, kite surfing and Wind surfing is an adventure that definitely gets crazier the windier it gets. From Scotland to the east and south of London, there are plenty of kite, wave and wind surfing spots to catch some wind and fly high. The fun begins when you get your wetsuit on!

Shoreham, West Sussex

Shoreham is the training ground for many top kite UK surfers and windsurfers – Danny Seales, Nik Baker and Matt Pearch, to name a few. Only a few minutes from Brighton, Shoreham offers good kitesurfing at both high and low tide. The Brighton nightlife isn’t bad, either, and there are plenty of hotels and hostels in the surrounding area.

Poole Harbour, Dorset

Poole Harbour offers windsurfing and kitesurfing for all abilities. Beginners are encouraged to learn in the shallow areas of the harbour; the more advanced learners, on the seaside. Kitesurfing schools and shops include FC Watersports Academy, H2O Sports, Poole Harbour Watersports and Surface to Air Kitesurfing.

Weymouth Harbour, Dorset

Home to Windtek School and centre of excellence for the 2012 Olympics, Weymouth Harbour is all about speed and fun. One of the attractions that makes this spot different is its sandy bottom and shallow water. The flat water is a plus for speedsters. October is the best time for kitesurfing and conditions are suitable for both learners and experts. Check weather conditions and tides before you arrive.

Gwithian Beach, Cornwall

One of the best kitesurfing and windsurfing spots in the UK, Gwithian Beach faces the north-west and gets Atlantic attitude. Good for both pros and beginners, this beach is one of the most beautiful in the West Country. Optimum conditions are around September and June, with the strongest currents during the mid-tide. Contact Ocean High, Westcountry Watersports or Cornwall Online for more info. There are plenty of reasonable bed and breakfast options. Recommended are Gwithian Chalets.

West Wittering, West Sussex

Expert surfers will love high tide, while at low tide the sandbanks create more sheltered waters. West Wittering with its excellent range of clubs and schools is perfect for a memorable day-out.

Island of Tiree, Hebrides

On the west coast of Scotland north of Glasgow, this is one of the holy sites of kitesurfing and windsurfing. One of the sunniest places in the UK, this island is known for its uninterrupted waves and wind, the best the Atlantic can offer. The ocean side of the island has huge swells, the coastal side is calm. A shallow loch is ideal for beginners to practise on. The Tiree Wave classic is held in October and is the high point of the British windsurfing calendar, attracting top professional windsurfers from around the world. Connect with Wild Diamond Windsurfing or book with Tiree Surf Academy for courses or accommodation. There are quite a few pubs. Glasgow is the closest airport and ferry services operate from Oban.

Chalkwell ‘The Ray’, Southend-on-Sea, Essex

Chalkwell – ‘The Ray’ – is the place for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Just an hour east of London, this is the best flat-water sailing experience in Britain. At low tide, The Ray is perfect for beginners and speedsters. At high tide, launching and landing can be a bit dodgy. Nearby casinos and hotels provide the nightlife. Contact Southend Kitesurfing for courses.

Hayling Island, Hampshire

The sea front here has suitable conditions for beginners or intermediate. No matter what the wind conditions are like, there is always somewhere you can sail. Connect with organisers like Andy Biggs for lessons for you and the family. September witnesses the Fat Face Night Surf competition, which is the highlight of the year.

Rhosneigr, Anglesey

Consistently flowing good winds and decent weather conditions make Rhosneigr one of the UK’s favourite windsurfing and kitesurfing spots. It is home to several top UK surfers and friendly to learners. The British National Wave Championships are frequently held here. Check out local windsurfing shop Funsport.

Brandon Bay, Co Kerry

Yet another top windsurfing and kitesurfing spot. This giant bay in Ireland receives the swell rolling in from the Atlantic. The conditions here can transform from waves the size of a double-decker bus that only pros should tackle, to mirror-like flat water perfect for beginners. Contact Jamie Knox for accommodation or tuition requirements.

 

The post Searching for Waves from London? appeared first on Felix Magazine.