The Severn Bore

What is the Severn Bore?

One of Britain's few natural phenomena, the Severn Bore is a large surge wave that can be seen in the estuary of the River Severn, where the tidal range is the 2nd highest in the world, being as much as 50 feet (approx. 15.4m). Graded from 1* to 5* the power of the wave is truly spectacular to witness.

This incredible tidal wave travels more than 25 miles up the Severn Estuary from Awre to Gloucester. It’s created when the Atlantic tide surges into the Bristol Channel and is funnelled into the narrowing Severn Estuary, forcing the water level to rise dramatically. As the river narrows, the incoming tide forms a single, powerful wave that can reach speeds of up to 21 km/h, creating the Severn Bore.

If you haven't yet witnessed the incredible spectacle that is the Severn Bore, make a date to do so, it's well worth it.

Can I surf the Severn Bore?

Tempted to take on the Severn Bore yourself? This river wave holds a special place in surfing history - first ridden in 1955 by the legendary Colonel ‘Mad’ Jack Churchill. Today, it attracts a mix of surfers, kayakers, and paddleboarders, especially during larger bores in spring and autumn. But don’t be fooled - despite the buzz, the water is icy cold and the current can be fierce, particularly when the river is busy with others trying to ride it.

If you're thinking of giving it a go, it's essential to seek advice from those who know the river well - even seasoned surfers have come unstuck here. For tips, tide times and more, head to the main Severn Bore website, managed by local experts who have surfed the bore countless times. You can also find the latest tidal predictions on the National Tidal page.

Where to Watch the Severn Bore

There are many locations to watch it from. The estuary begins to bottleneck around Newnham-on-Severn meaning that the wave strengthens and gains speed, which is why it is a very popular spot both to watch it from and for surfers to get into the water. As the river flows towards Gloucester there are also popular locations at Broadoak just up from Newnham, Garden Cliff near Westbury-on-Severn and Minsterworth.

At Minsterworth a public footpath runs along the river bank. Access to this is adjacent to the church, where there is a lectern giving information about the bore. There is a car park with no fixed charge for parking but a voluntary contribution is requested. A collection box is sited at the pedestrian exits. Toilets are usually available when there are 4* weekend bores but not at other times and not at the Village Hall for evening bores.

Newnham-on-Severn is also one of the best places to see the Severn Bore. There is a small car park with a long stretch of raised bank to walk along and view the bore from. There are also toilets and sometimes a mobile van serving drinks and snacks. Newnham is the main location for surfers, kayakers and paddleboarders to get into the water to try to catch the wave and ride it into Gloucester, so it can be a dramatic spot but also very busy especially when there are 4 and 5* bores and there is limited parking. Turn up early to get a space!

Please be aware that these are all popular locations and can get very busy especially on big bore days, we recommend arriving in plenty of time. Remember also that the timetable is only an estimate and sometimes the bore can be 10 minutes early or late! Also please stand well back, the wave can not only hit the shore but completely swamp it and anyone standing on it (we've seen it happen).

Strongest bores are during the spring and autumn tides. For the latest dates and predicted Severn Bore activity, visit the National Tidal page here.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens was filmed here and we created this video of surfing stormtroopers to celebrate. You never know what you are going to see.