Features

United Kingdom - Surfing in Dorset

by Judith Randall

What’s that saying about trying something new every day? Or is it every week? Well once a month is enough for me... so for those of you who like being wet and don’t mind the cold there is more than a little fun to be had in Boscombe, Dorset... I discovered their little secret!

The local authority has built a surf reef, which is situated 220 metres offshore just east of the Boscombe Pier. It is constructed from 55 giant bags of sand and is the size of a football pitch. The reef is part of an extensive regeneration scheme which has become affordable since the local council sold off some land for development to invest in local facilities. I personally love that initiative! The reef itself comes alive when conditions are right which it wasn’t when I visited recently, but there were plenty of happy surfers catching a few rollers the other side of the pier. Apparently when the reef is working it’s for the experienced only, but this is a great place for learners too. With a couple of impressive looking surf schools right across the beach you can hire everything you need and learn how to ‘Do it standing up!’

There is even a surf friendly hotel (The Urban Beach Hotel) which is partly run by (but not exclusively for) surfers, and caters for all their needs. It has a funky laid-back feel, a cool bar and surfboards are always welcome on the patio. It also has a sister restaurant, The Urban Reef, which has a 'surf cam' on the website so surfers can view the waves before deciding to take a trip to the sea. I spent a fair amount of time in this friendly place. It has a great menu for small and large appetites, the staff are totally obliging and you get great views of the Reef from inside by the bar - - and even better ones from upstairs. There is also a large outdoor space where you can sit and recover from surfing over a beer and a tasty, freshly made snack. (I love it when you can see the chefs at work!)

This place is intimate and friendly enough to enjoy either alone here or with mates or family, it’s very user friendly, within walking distance of all amenities and even has cheap parking. Bournemouth is easy to get to by train and most places are in easy reach just walking. There is a fully manned RNLI station which will be situated on the beach in the summer but right now is looking over the beach from the pavement area. I certainly would feel safe as even with so few people in the water they were vigilant and professional as well as very friendly and approachable.

So there you have it, go there and try it out now, I think it’s an up and coming place and I shall certainly be going back and checking on its progress. When you do go and check it out we would love to get your feedback so please email me judi@goyourownway.info as I really would like your opinion.

... As I puffed my way up the steep hill to my car I spoke to a young surfer on his way down, wetsuit on and board under his arm, 'How is the surfing here?' I asked, 'It's good...' he replied over his shoulder, '...but I’m moving to Australia next week!' Don’t you just hate that!