The Wave Bristol: First visit essentials & check-in guide

5 things you need to bring

Wetsuits and soft-top foam boards are included in the session for free, but you’re welcome to bring your own.

1. Swimwear for under your wetsuit, and on hot days, you won’t need a wetsuit

2. A towel

3. A water bottle (refill stations are dotted around site)

4. Sun cream (50SPF and waterproof) and a hat for when it’s hot

5. There is a 1km walk from the carpark, so if you prefer not to walk, bring a skateboard, scooter or bike, especially if you’ve got kids in tow

We’re located near M5 junction 17 in South Gloucestershire (BS35 5RE), only 20 minutes from Bristol City Centre.
Park in the free car park, one hour before your session. Blue badge holders can park at the front of the clubhouse.
It’s a 1km walk, scooter, skate or cycle from the car park to the lake.
At the entrance [1], head through the Clubhouse and out to the Boardroom [2].
Check in on the self-service screen, then collect your wetsuit from the desk. Hardboard hire is available here too.

Change in the changing rooms [3] and stow your things in the free lockers.
Meet at the boardroom entrance [2], 15 minutes before your session, for the safety briefing. Spare time beforehand? Stretch and warm up at the astro turf area by the changing rooms.
Collect your Wave rash vest and watch the safety briefing video in the boardroom [2].
Using a free foam board? Pick one up from the racks [4] or the nearby board shacks — bigger is best if you’re unsure.
Wait on your booked shore side [5] (left or right).
Lifeguards will call you into the lake when it’s your session.

[1] Clubhouse entrance

[2] Boardroom entrance

[3] Lockers and changing rooms

[4] Surf racks

[5] Shore

Here is some more info to prepare you

The car park is free but a bit bumpy (we’re working on improvements), take it slow and arrive in plenty of time.
Sign your online waiver before you arrive. You’ll have received the link by email ahead of your visit.
When you’re not surfing, relax in our restaurant, go for a skate at the skatepark, or wander round our rewilded grounds.
Had a great session? You can get 10% off your next surf if you book on-site.
Your personalised surf session videos and photos are available via Flowstate for 30 days.
Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed on site (other than service dogs).
Surfing and bodyboarding are physically challenging and carry risks that we cannot entirely eliminate. Have a look at our important Health & Safety information and find out how to surf safely here.