East Anglia
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Positives
- Sucky beachbreaks
- Myriad groynes
- Autumn and winter waves
- Relatively uncrowded
Negatives
- Very inconsistent
- Super short-lived swells
- Very cold, polluted water
- Hazardous underwater debris
East Anglia surf travel guide
Southeast England is inconsistent and polluted. The Kent coastline has got some surf spots but it's very rare for straight N groundswell to make it all the way down the North Sea. Joss Bay and the surrounding breaks generally work on short-range N/NE windswells. Norfolk never gets big waves but the flint-laden beaches have good shape and offer sucky beachbreaks. In a good northerly swell there are offshore options in any wind from the S round to W.
Surf spots in East Anglia
Research the 9 surf breaks in East Anglia and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 9 breaks in East Anglia.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to East Anglia
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Travel Information
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Visas
Since Brexit, unrestricted travel between the UK and the EU is over. The current system allows for visa free travel for up to 90/180 days a year. Beyond 90 days things get very complicated so check online for the details. US, Canada, OZ, NZ and some others follow the same 90-180 day rules. Most other countries need a visa before arrival. more info here
Getting Around
In the surf season the coast is very quiet so getting around is quick and easy and there is plenty of parking at the beaches. It's about 3 hour's drive from central London to Cromer.
Accommodation
Cromer is the best base for getting the most out of the swell and it's a short drive to the more east-facing coast if the winds are more west. Busy in summer and deserted in winter when prices fall.
Activities
Blakeney National Nature Reserve has the UK's largest grey seal population that is best visited with a tour. Coastal walking along the park is very popular. Cromer and other towns have classic seaside pier entertainments including amusements and shows. Otherwise, the coast is very quiet for the prime surf months with little to do.
Hazards & hassles
Cold is the main hazard. The north sea is always colder than the channel or Atlantic coasts so be prepared all year. The beach breaks can be a lot more powerful than expected and that along with ice cream headaches that suck the breath out of you can get inexperienced surfers in trouble.
Handy Hints
Strong offshores can blow the swell away quicker than expected so be very quick when the swell is there and the winds are good. Glassy days can be the most fun along this stretch. East Coast Surf Shop in Cromer is well-stocked and is the hub of surf culture in East Anglia. They also do board and wetsuit repairs. The groynes can hold the sand and make for more peaky waves and easier paddle outs.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.