Surfing in northeast England: the best beaches to catch waves
Want to try your hand at surfing in the North East? Check out our guide to the swellest beaches in the region.
Did you know that summer is the best time to surf your first surf?
Yes, all the experts agree. Summer brings longer days, warmer seas and the gentlest waves of the year. For beginners, it's the perfect excuse to dip your toe into the wet and wild world of surfing.
Time for a trip to Cornwall, then? Not so fast.
See, while the Cornish coast has rightfully earned its title as the home of UK surfing, it doesn't have a monopoly on waves. You can find seriously surfable beaches throughout the country – including here in northeast England.
So, join us as we say 'Cowabunga, pet' and wave hello to five of the North East's most surf-worthy beaches. But first, a word on equipment.
What equipment do I need to get started?
Think surfers just turn up and hang ten? Think again. See, surfing is a serious hobby with a sizeable equipment list to match.
The good news is that you don't have to shell out for all this stuff as a beginner. Just want to dip your toes into the surf? You can rent a wetsuit, surfboard and all the essentials from your friendly local surf school.
If you fall in love with surfing, though, you might decide to invest in your own kit. Here's a shopping list:
- A surfboard: boards come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. As a beginner, you want something large and stable to keep you on the board and out of the water. A longboard is ideal.
- A wetsuit: you'll need a wetsuit to keep you warm as you surf the chilly UK seas – even in summer. A 3:2-thickness suit will do the job during the warmest months.
- A leg rope: this essential safety accessory tethers your ankle to your surfboard. This means less risk of accidents – or losing your treasured board.
- Fins: as you become more invested in your hobby, you'll want to kit out your board with a set of fins. They act like spoilers on cars or rudders on aeroplanes – they're there to help provide control and stability.
- Accessories: board wax… surf hoods… rash guards… No, we haven't made them up. Serious surfers swear by accessories like these.
A few notes on safety
It goes without saying that you should NEVER attempt surfing unless you're at least a competent swimmer.
ALWAYS check the weather and tide times before you go – and don't be tempted to surf in inclement conditions.
And, finally, NEVER surf alone. Bring a surf buddy or – even better – learn to surf under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
Of course, this doesn't cover everything. We recommend you familiarise yourself with RNLI's guide to staying safe while surfing before you set off.
The best beaches for surfing in the North East
1. Tynemouth
Tynemouth isn't just one of the best beaches for surfing in the North East. It's among the most acclaimed surfing spots in the whole of the UK.
The town boasts three stunning beaches – King Edward's Bay, Longsands and Whitley Bay – all of which are sanctuaries for local surfers.
Beginners should head to Longsands. This golden beach not only whips up great waves but also hosts two well-regarded surf schools.
Avoid Whitley Bay unless you know what you're doing. It's the only beach in town without an active lifeguard service.
2. South Shields
South Shields is another much-loved North East coastal down. You'll find it just across the bay from Tynemouth. And like Tynemouth, it's a surfing hotspot with several beaches to choose from.
Littlehaven is the smallest and most sheltered – too sheltered for big waves, unfortunately. But that's fine because Sandhaven – the town's main beach – seems tailor-made for wave worshippers. (Perhaps they should rename it 'Surfhaven'. Just a thought.)
Surf-forecast.com gives the beach a respectable four out of five stars, praising its 'consistent surf' and uncrowded vibe while warning against submerged rocks. Beginners will be pleased to know there's a surf school just a few metres from the sand, too.
3. Bamburgh
Bamburgh is one of Northumberland's smallest, sparkliest gems. The village has a population of just 400-odd yet boasts a stunning medieval castle, a well-regarded museum and plenty of things to do.
It's also one of the best surfing spots in the North East. Take a short, pleasant walk over to Bamburgh Beach and you'll see why. With the castle towering above you and hearty waves at your feet, it's easy to feel like you've landed in surf paradise.
According to the official Bamburgh website, the beach offers 'one of the most consistent and picturesque breaks in the Northumberland coastline'. It's also home to several surf schools, which operate from spring to autumn.
4. Steetley Beach
Want big waves and nothing less? Head to Hartlepool near Middlesborough to find Steetley Beach – one of the region's most underrated surfing spots.
Some might say it's underrated for a reason. According to one report, water quality can vary – and there are a few dangers to be aware of. However, the reviewer also notes that the waves can reach 'stupid sizes'.
For old-timers, it's unbeatable. For beginners, it's a bit too wet and wild. Best to leave this one to the experts.
5. Redcar
Finally, we leap over the mouth of the Tees to reach Redcar – a Yorkshire resort town with one of the largest beaches in the region.
While wave heights vary, experts agree that it's worth a surf. The moderate waves make it especially good for beginners – as do the RNLI lifeguards, who patrol the beach daily from July to September.
Fancy trying something different? Visit Redcar and you can also try your hand at windsurfing and kite surfing, as well as horse riding, cycling and yoga.
Need a car or van to kickstart your surfing adventure? MVH Rental offers a wide selection of rental vehicles and some of the best prices in the North East. Visit us in Gateshead or Sunderland or call (0191) 4888 700 for an instant quote.
