Clevedon, Portishead, Weston-Super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea are just a few of Somerset’s great seaside destinations. Despite being less than an hour’s drive from Bristol, why go that far? Plus, you won’t have the disappointment of not being able to catch some gnarly waves. Or the issue of traipsing sand back home with you…
Just a 30-minute drive north from Bristol city centre is The Wave, the first inland-surfing destination of its kind. Where visitors can experience the joy of surfing the waves without having to head to surfing beaches down in the likes of Cornwall or abroad. With a 180m long surfing lake, The Wave has created an inland surf experience suitable for everyone whether you’re a beginner or an absolute pro.
The waves are produced by Wavegarden Cove technology, which can generate up to 1,000 quality waves per hour, ranging from 50cm (1.7ft) to almost 2m (6.5ft) in height. This ground-breaking technology allows The Wave to produce a new wave every 8-10 seconds. Totally rad or what?
If you’re looking to learn how to surf or simply want to practice knowing you’re going to get awesome waves, The Wave is a wonderful place to provide safe and consistent waves. Plus, the whole surfing experience has been designed to ensure each surfer has the “space, time and serenity” without needing to deal with crowds.
The Wave offers a range of surf lessons delivered by qualified coaches. Both for beginners, looking to learn how to surf, and experienced surfers looking to improve. The lessons are 1.5 hours long, with a 30 minute dry side lesson and 60 minutes in the water, with the wave height increasing based on difficulty. Prices start from £40 for children and £50 for adults, with wetsuits, gloves, boots and board hire all included in the price of your surf.
The inland-surfing spot also offers surf sessions for all abilities. Adaptive surfing for those with additional needs of challenges, such as a disability. Women-only surfing sessions. Plus ‘Play in the Bay‘ sessions for little ones to paddle, splash and build confidence in the water.
Plus, for those who know a thing or two about surfing, The Wave offers expert barrel sessions. This allows you to ride powerful waves with consistent and fun-to-navigate barrels or expert turn sessions. A fast and challenging session, full of The Wave’s most powerful turning waves to test your performance turns.
Surfing is hard work. Thankfully The Wave has its very own café. For you to refuel with burgers, hearty, protein-filled bowls, loaded fries, fish and chips, mac n cheese and more. Fancy staying longer? The Camp at The Wave allows you to enjoy a surfing break in the countryside, but still close to Bristol, where you can surf and relax.