kitesurf, wingfoil and windsurf spots in United Kingdom

A nation of sailors, and pioneers

The United Kingdom has a close relationship with the sea, and riding here goes back a long way. The south coast of England is credited with one of the very first sailboards in history, and the country has produced generations of windsurfers, then kiters, among the best in the world. Its federations are long-established and well organised, and schools follow demanding training standards.

The sport is widespread, driven by weather that, if not always kind, is almost always windy. People ride all year round, often in full wetsuits, boots and hoods, with a tenacity that has built British riders' reputation.

Tides first

The first thing to understand is the tides. The tidal range is among the largest in Europe, and it completely transforms spots through the day. At low tide, beaches like Camber Sands or West Wittering uncover vast expanses of sand and flat, shallow water; at high tide, the same place becomes narrow and choppy. Almost every spot has its "right" tide, and locals know it by heart.

From the Atlantic to sheltered harbours

Geography does the rest. In the west, Cornwall, Wales and the Scottish islands take the Atlantic swell: powerful waves among cliffs and moorland. In the south and east, great natural harbours and shallow bays offer sheltered water, perfect for learning, freestyle and wing foiling.

• Tides: the tidal range is very large. Most spots are only good at certain tide states; schools and locals know which one.
• Cold water: a full wetsuit almost all year, plus boots, gloves and a hood in winter.
• Federations and schools: schools affiliated with the national federations follow high training standards and know each spot's rules.
• Regulated zones: lifeguarded swimming zones in summer, and harbour authority rules, notably in Poole and Portland.
• Changeable weather: conditions turn quickly. Offshore wind, which carries you away from shore, is particularly dangerous.