The Wave Bristol

The Wave is an artificial wave facility powered by Wavegarden Cove technology, generating consistent left and right-breaking waves in a 180-meter freshwater lake. The system produces up to 1,000 waves per hour with heights ranging from 50 centimeters to 1.8 meters and intervals of 6 to 8 seconds between waves. Four distinct difficulty settings accommodate all skill levels. The main hazard is the concrete lake floor, particularly in the shallow reef area toward the end of the wave, where surfers risk board damage or impact injuries; additional risks include collisions with own boards or other surfers' equipment.

The Wave opened in October 2019 as the world's first public Wavegarden Cove facility and the United Kingdom's first artificial wave pool. Since then it has hosted major national competitions, including the English National Surfing Championships and the English Para Surfing Open—an adaptive surfing event that draws athletes from around the globe. The venue temporarily closed in June 2025 due to financial issues but reopened the following month under new ownership and continues operating.

The facility sits at Washingpool Farm near Easter Compton, about 22 minutes north of Bristol and easily accessible from the M4 and M5 motorways. Free parking is available on site, and the venue is situated roughly 2 hours from London and 50 minutes from Cardiff.