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Oct 2011
Whether you're a seasoned surfer or simply keen to try a new sport, autumn provides some of the best conditions for hitting the waves in the UK. The weather is ripe, the holidaymakers have gone home and the beaches are bare. So what are you waiting for?
Europe's first artificial surf reef off Boscombe, Bournemouth, is one of the few artificial reefs worldwide and is great news for intermediate surfers in the UK.
The reef itself is constructed from huge sandbags, which act as a ramp to change the way the waves break. Built 250m from the shore – the artificial reef is designed to improve the surf that already exists in the area. Probably not demanding enough for world-class surfers, the surf may however prove too challenging for beginners when there is a good swell.
You don't have to travel far to catch some decent waves – there are plenty of top surfing hotpots around the UK, many of which can be found in the South-West of the country:
Just outside Newquay, this surfing mecca boasts more than two miles of sandy beach and consistent waves. There are professional surf schools catering for beginners as well as those who want to improve their skills.
One of the most popular surf spots in the UK, Newquay attracts hordes of dedicated and wannabe surfers as well as hen and stag parties. A short drive from Watergate Bay, this thriving town boasts an abundance of surf schools and surf shops, as well as a vibrant nightlife. Best for intermediate surfers, the waves hold some challenges even for the experienced.
Another beautiful, exposed Cornish beach perfect for surfing - Sennen offers decent waves and tuition for all abilities. Sennen's Beach Restaurant is also legendary, offering tasty home-cooked food and some stunning views.
Autumn is a great time to enjoy the good groundswells here, as Polzeath can be uncomfortably packed during the summer months. An ideal place to learn surfing in the UK.
This sandy beach next to a harbour is for expert surfers only. The breaks are extremely powerful and the reef is shallow and rough.
The best beach around St Ives for surfing is Porthmeor, on the town's north coast. Ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers and popular with families – the beach is manned by lifeguards throughout the summer. The beach is also very close to town and overlooked by the Tate St Ives.
This beautiful big beach on Devon's north coast is the ideal place for beginners to get their first taste of surfing, thanks to its slower breaking waves. It's also popular with longboarders.
The north Devon coast offers great variety for surfers of all abilities. Not far from Saunton, Croyde offers greater challenges for intermediate or experienced surfers. The waves are powerful so this is no place for beginners, although tuition is available for those who want to improve their skills.
Further north, Woolacombe tends to be quieter. The gently sloping three-mile beach makes this a safe spot for beginners. However, it can also provide challenging surf for the more experienced or those wishing to hone their technique.
A gently shelving sandy beach means that this spot has been used by surfers since the 1960s. There is good UK surfing to be had by beginners and intermediates on either side of the pier – and beginners can take advantage of the surf school.
For serious, experienced surfers only, this beach offers some of the best waves in Europe. The sea here is cold and the warmest waters can be enjoyed in September. The slate reef can be unforgiving and this is an isolated spot, but the rewards can be great if you are looking for a challenge.
This is a safe beach that lends itself well to surfers of all levels. Nearby facilities are good and this is also one of the closest surfing beaches to Edinburgh. When the weather is particularly rough, this beach is better suited to experienced surfers.
This beautiful Blue Flag beach close to Mumbles village provides ideal UK surfing for beginners – its small, safe waves and soft sandy beach are great for those learning to surf. There are lifeguards on patrol during peak season, and nearby facilities are good.
Considered by some to be the most consistent surf spot in Wales, this is a vast beach and offers challenging surf. Strong currents and powerful waves make this a no-go area for swimmers and can mean it's a tough paddle out.
Known as Hell's Mouth, this vast and popular surfing beach is around 4 miles long and offers consistent surf. More experienced surfers head for the northern end of the beach.
Where do you love to surf? Wax lyrical about the best surf beaches, good swells, the warmest water and more in the AA Zone.
Major annual events from around the UK:
The Relentless Boardmasters Festival takes place in Newquay's Watergate Bay alongside the annual Boardmasters Championships. The Men's World Qualifying Series surfing event is the highlight on the water, while musicians provide the festival atmosphere.
Newquay's Fistral Beach welcomes around 150 of the best British surfers for this annual event. The competition is held in late summer in a bid to ensure the best possible waves .
If you want to go a little further afield then there are some great surfing beaches in northern Spain, a mere ferry ride away; don't forget AA members enjoy discounted ferry travel and more. The following areas offer great surfing spots and are only a short drive from Santander or Bilbao:
Read our invaluable advice on European driving, and don't forget to organise AA European breakdown cover and travel insurance before you set off. Plus, check out our extensive range of Spanish travel guides and maps.
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