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Surfing in Scotland

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Scottish Surfing
Surfadh na h-Alaba
Surfing at Belhaven bay
Country Scotland
Governing bodyScottish Surfing Federation
National team(s)Surf Scotland
First played1973
National competitions
Scottish National Surfing Championships
International competitions
Tràigh Baile a' Mhuilinn on the north west coast of Tiree, Inner Hebrides

Surfing in Scotland is a minor sport. It is practices on east and west coast where the water is warmed by the Gulf Stream. It is represented by the long boarding, short boarding, stand-up paddleboarding and para surfing.

Scotland is a popular surfing destination, with numerous spots known for consistent waves and stunning scenery, especially during the colder months. While the water can be cold, the surfing community is vibrant, offering lessons, surf camps, and various surfing spots for all skill levels.[1]

History

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First surfing clubs date back in 1970s. The Scottish Surfing Federation was established in 1975. By the end of 1990s the sport has suffered a significant decline. The revival of popular sport in 2005 meant the establishing of regular National Championships in spring[2][3] and Clan gatherings in autumn.[4]

Surfing locations

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A panorama shot of Coldingham Sands from Homeli Knoll, the village of St Abbs is just visible over the headland.

Surfing locations in Scotland include the following:

East Coast

West Coast

North Coast

Islands

Inland

See also

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Scottish Surfing Federation

European Surfing Federation

International Surfing Association

The Wave Project surf therapy charity

References

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  1. ^ "Surfing & Windsurfing in Scotland". VisitScotland. Retrieved 23 May 2025.
  2. ^ "Scottish surfing competition to mark 50th anniversary". BBC News. 3 April 2023. Retrieved 23 May 2025.
  3. ^ "Big entry as Scottish surfing championships return to Thurso". Northern Times. 19 April 2025. Retrieved 23 May 2025.
  4. ^ "How Scottish Surfing survived a near-death experience to hit 50". The Scotsman. 3 April 2025. Retrieved 23 May 2025.