Surf: General: Long, sandy bay with seawall / harbour at northern end, making it a good option for a bit of shelter in northerly winds. The river filters in here and there is another small river to the south. Banks are shifty, but can be good and there are a few groynes towards the Blyth end. Parking all along the bay. The UK's only world champion Martin Potter was born here. Tides: Breaks through the tides. Size: Thigh to head high. Wind: W, SW. Swell: NE Bottom: Sand. Paddling: Fun and mellow when small, hard work when bigger. Spot Rating: Long beach with shifty peaks. Access: There are a number of car parks either overlooking the beach or just set back behind the dunes. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Quiet. Local Vibe: Friendly. Environment: Can be polluted after rains. Hazards: Rips when bigger, occasional groyne. Season: September - February.