North west Wales proving popular among water sports enthusiasts in new study
Two North Wales beauty spots have been named as some of the best places to paddleboard in the UK. GO Outdoors has revealed the best water sports destinations in England, Scotland, and Wales.
It did a “deep dive” into the best locations to enjoy water sports across Britain for its new study. The Mawddach Estuary and Harlech came third and fifth respectively as the ideal paddleboarding spots behind the “winner” Silecroft Beach in Cumbria and Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight.
Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, the Mawddach Estuary in Barmouth scored 8.51 out of 10. GO Explore said: “From its mountainous backdrop to its tranquil waters, it is a great location for a relaxing paddle.
“Surrounded by the hills and forests of Snowdonia, (Eryri) the Mawddach Estuary has excellent-rated bathing waters, sea temperatures reaching 20.5°C in July, and an average of 1,186 sunshine hours. Additionally, parking in one of its closest car parks costs just £2.20 for two hours.
When it came to surfing North Wales did even better. Barmouth beach came top in the UK with Aberystwyth North beach in third, behind Thurlstone beach in Devon in second place.
GO Explore said: “Barmouth Beach takes top spot as the best surfing location in Britain, scoring 9.41 out of 10. As southern Snowdonia’s (Eryri’s) most popular seaside resort, this lovely sandy beach is a magnet for visitors.
“Though in first place for surfing, there are more watersports activities to explore, from jet-skiing to sailing. With plenty to offer, including shops, restaurants, cafes and mobility accessibility facilities, this is a very inclusive location.
“Not only is the water quality rated excellent, but it also has a great wind speed of 9.08 per 10m in height, meaning you can get relatively gentle and consistent waves, making it particularly good for beginners and intermediate surfers. With plenty of available parking, visitors can stay for two hours for as little as £1.10.”
Aberystwyth North beach was also praised. GO Explore said: “Though surfing at Aberystwyth North Beach depends on the right weather conditions for good-quality waves, its pebbly shore and promenade offer a charming urban coastal experience along its beautiful Welsh coastline.
“With a surf score of 8.66 out of 10, Aberystwyth North Beach offers a good starting point for those learning to surf. This location also has a wind speed of 9.68, and despite having 204 rainy days, it has an average annual sunshine hours of 1,186.
“For those looking to catch a wave here, parking is available, and its closest location costs £3.80 for two hours.”
When it came to kayaking, the study also found that Borth beach, seven miles north of Aberystwyth in Ceredigion, is the UK’s best kayaking destination.