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About The Wave

 

Aerial view of The Wave in Bristol inland surfing lake with waves

The Wave is an  inland  surfing  destination  born out of a passion for technology, nature and human health. At its heart is an unbelievable surfing lake with perfect waves, set in incredible green space.

We want to help everyone to:

  • Surf more
  • Be happy in their mind and body
  • Reconnect to the planet 
  • Feel alive!

One wave at a time.

It’s our mission to bring unbelievable surfing experiences inland. We use the best technology to put perfect waves at the heart of incredible green spaces, so that everyone can experience our passion for surfing, connect to the natural world and be happier and healthier.

Entrance to the Clubhouse at The Wave inland surfing lake near Bristol

Founder, Nick Hounsfield, had a dream of creating a place where people could get outdoors, be active and connect with themselves and each other. At the heart of this space was a surfing lake that would draw people in and deliver physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.

Nick joined forces with Craig Stoddart, a friend and businessman, to help bring together the team and secure the sizeable investment they needed to build a pioneering business around this idea. It was a roller coaster journey of resilience and determination, but fast forward ten years and the dream became a reality – perfect waves rolled across a field in Bristol for the first time.

We have created a place where people can surf on consistent waves all year round. But we aren’t just a leisure destination and The Wave isn’t just about surfing.

It’s about sharing incredible experiences with anyone who wants to enjoy them, in a naturally, healthy space. That includes people who may often feel excluded by disability, illness, age, gender, background, income, fears or pressures to conform. We’re about improving health and wellbeing, helping people be the best version of themselves and, most importantly, having a shedload of fun in the process.

Nick Hounsfield surfing at The Wave, inland surfing lake in Bristol

We come from the sea...  


Specifically, from the moment an excited dad took his 5-year-old son surfing for the first time. He taught him that falling wasn’t failure but a chance to learn and find balance. He experienced the power of nature and the thrill of catching waves. The boy grew into a man, and those early experiences shaped his thinking, became part of his beliefs and are what inspired him to create The Wave.

The Wave is an  inland  surfing  destination  born out of a passion for technology, nature and human health.

Our Wavegarden Cove Technology


Our waves are produced by Wavegarden Cove technology. This technology is groundbreaking and can generate up to 1,000 quality waves per hour, ranging from 50cm (1.7ft) to almost 2m (6.5ft) in height. We can produce a new wave every 8-10 seconds.

Importantly, the whole surfing experience has been designed to ensure each surfer has the space, time and serenity to enjoy their surf at The Wave without ever needing to contend with the crowds.

Key Advantages of the Wavegarden Cove

Authentic surfing experience with widest variety of waves, maximum wave frequency, long rides, highest surfer capacity and noise free operation 

Superior and patented technology, which is energy efficient (1kw to create a 6ft wave)

Crystal clear, clean water

Trusted and reliable technology

For more information visit www.wavegarden.com

Our Story

Find out more about our 'Waves of Change' social impact programmes and activities.
Surfboards form a heart in the surf lake at The Wave near Bristol

The Team

Find out more about our Wavemakers.

Sustainability

At The Wave we believe our business can be a force for good. In order to do this we are careful with our decision-making, challenge our thinking and always consider the balance and trade-offs to be made.