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The Severn Bore

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Ideal surf conditions at The Severn Bore

Swell window
SW, W
Best swell direction
SW
Swell size
1ft - 1ft
Swell breaks over
Sand
Wave types
Rivermouth
Wave directions
Left, Right
Wind window
NE
Best tides at
High
Skill Level
Intermediate

The Severn Bore surf guide

The Severn Bore is a world-famous tidal bore that flows up the River Severn during spring high tides. It's known for its unique surfing experience where the wave can be ridden for miles, with the record being around 6 miles. The wave changes a lot based on the river flow, tide height, and following winds, so you can expect a variety of shapes and sizes. The best spots are around Newnham down to the Severn Bore Inn, where there are nice open walls of whitewash and various shoulders, though tighter peelers can be found closer to the bank. It wraps up near the weir, and interestingly, you can even get a rideable wave back down the river after it hits the weir at Over. It’s a spot that's popular with longboarders, kayakers, and waveskis.

The surf here works best with a southwest swell direction, and it handles swell sizes as small as 1 ft (about 0.3 meters) which makes it accessible for intermediate surfers. Waves can break left or right over sand, so there’s a bit of variety to explore. The preferred wind direction is from the northeast, and the ideal time to surf is during high tide. It’s worth noting that the wave can change quickly—one moment it might be overhead, and the next it can suck back into the bank, so be prepared for rapid shifts in conditions.

When surfing The Severn Bore, keep an eye out for submerged objects like tree stumps that can really disrupt a ride. There are also hazards like barbed wire and dead sheep along the banks, so it’s wise to plan your exit strategy and never surf alone or at night. If you're looking to catch the same wave multiple times, it's easy to drive between access points, which makes for a fun session chasing the bore.