Saltburn, or Saltburn-by-the-sea to give it its full title is probably one of the surfing meccas of the North East. It lies just a few miles down coast form the Tees estuary with its large petrochemical and steel works within easy access of the A19 and A174.

Saltburn has a large expanse of beach although the best surfing is to be had either side of the Victorian pier where numerous sand bars have formed. Surfers here are pretty used to kayakers being in the water around them and on the whole are pretty friendly and often amused by our antics as we spin down the waves. As long as your courtesous and follow the rules there is rarely any problems or hassle.

The waves themselves like any beach are swell dependent but flat days are fairly rare especially from September on. Even at levels of 1-2ft its worth a paddle.

Parking is easy and during the winter is free and ideally is only a few yards from the beach. The new watersports centre overlooking the beach provides changing and shower facilities and the town has the usual array of pubs and take-aways as well as a caravan park and supermarket.

(All images taken at Saltburn!)