[title]
It’s a tough life, being an avid surfer in London. Opportunities to ride waves without leaving the city are practically non-existent: with no naturally wavy waters in the capital and no artificial ripples either, the capital’s surfers have little choice but to flock to far-off beaches (like those in Brighton, Eastbourne and Norfolk) to show off their wave-riding skills. But soon that might all change, as the London is set to get its first inland surfing centre.
Called The Wave, the venue will be in Enfield (far north London) and host a range of water sports activities. Currently in the planning process, the project could transform 100 acres of the Lee Valley Regional Park into a surfer’s paradise.
The Wave already has a centre in Bristol, where waves (reaching up to 2m high) are produced every 8-10 seconds. London’s venue will apparently be just like Bristol’s, and it’s not just seasoned surfing pros who can get involved. With beginner, advanced and expert sessions, plus plenty of green spaces, cycling tracks and cafés surrounding the water, it sounds like a pretty fun day out for everyone.
There’s currently no official opening date for The Wave, so watch this space for updates. In the meantime check out our lists of the best waterparks near London and the capital’s finest wild swimming spots.
Did you see that the Thames could be safe to swim in by 2034?
Plus: last minute tube strikes are happening this week.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox