In their words...
why we love The South West
One of the most diverse regional coastlines of the UK, the South West ranges from the super-tidal mudflats of the River Severn estuary and the boulder-strewn Somerset beaches, through the jagged cliffs and sweeping golden sandy beaches that characterise the Cornish and Devonian coasts to the myriad tiny, gorse-framed coves and on to the buzz of urban areas like Weymouth, a place that was first discovered by the Victorians as a great holiday resort.
Home to the Jurassic Coast this region boasts fossil-laden cliffs, picturesque coves and famous geology like Durdle Door and Old Harry Rock. In contrast it’s been said that Bournemouth is the closest thing to Californian living in the UK. There really is a beach for everyone! Dog walkers, nature-lovers, hikers, ramblers, beach-goers, water sports enthusiasts, picnickers, detectorists, cyclists, ocean road-drivers and rock poolers can all find their niche on this stretch of coastline.
A plethora of waves break throughout this region with famous spots such as Fistral, Porthleven and Croyde being easy-to-know jewels in the crown. However, for the adventurous out there, uncrowded perfection is readily on offer and further along the south coast still attracts pockets of keen surfers with an ever growing watersports community. Venture a little further from the beaten track for your slice of wavy heaven.
While winter storms harass the beaches on this exposed stretch, stripping back the sand and damaging coastal developments, the inundation of tourists during the summer months also have a range of adverse effects: Littering, coastal erosion and more are commonplace as the hordes descend to enjoy this pristine natural environment.
The birthplace of Surfers Against Sewage, ocean conservation has always been ingrained in the region’s culture, as the sea is such an obvious and omnipresent source, and is a growing trend in the younger generations. The Regional Reps Programme is particularly strong here with all keys areas covered and regular beach clean events taking place throughout the year.
