From vintage wave-chasers to modern-day surf heroes, an epic new exhibition is making waves at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall – and we’re beyond stoked to have played a part.
A Look into Cornish Surfing History
Running from Friday 28 March 2025 to January 2027, SURF! is a landmark exhibition exploring the last 100 years of surfing in Cornwall. Set against the backdrop of 422 miles of Atlantic-kissed coastline, this immersive journey uncovers how surfing shaped the region – and how Cornwall shaped global surf culture in return.
From the 1920s pioneers paddling out on wooden bellyboards, to today’s world-class athletes carving clean lines at Fistral, SURF! captures the heart, soul and salt of British surf culture.
Watch the Trailer:
Exhibition Highlights
- 100 surfboards spanning a century of innovation
- Unseen works by artists like Damien Hirst and Abigail Fallis
- Hidden histories of female surfers who paved the way
- Artefacts from private collections never before on public display
- Surf fashion, photography, film, and music influences
Curated by surf academic Dr. Sam Bleakley, SURF! is more than just boards on a wall. It’s a celebration of how surfing flows through Cornwall’s identity, its health culture, and its creative legacy.
Our Role in the Lineup
Here at Newquay Activity Centre, we were stoked to support the build-up to this cultural celebration. We:
- Helped collect vintage surf gear and magazines
- Shared local industry insights and stories
- Acted as a drop-off point for surfboards and historic equipment
As Newquay locals and long-time surf instructors, it’s an honour to be part of a story that honours the wave riders who came before us.
Curious about learning to surf? Join us for a surf lesson in Newquay.
Why This Exhibition Matters
Surfing isn’t just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, a culture, a community. SURF! celebrates this spirit while also highlighting Cornwall’s place as a hub of surf innovation, activism, and wellness.
It also shines a long-overdue spotlight on the unsung legends – especially women in surfing – whose stories deserve to be told.
Plan Your Visit
Where: National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth
When: 28 March 2025 – January 2027
Visit: More info & tickets
If you’re passionate about surfing, Cornwall, or both – don’t miss this one. Swing by, soak up the stoke, and catch a glimpse of the boards, the people, and the culture that carved a century of surf history.
Why not pair your exhibition visit with an actual surf session? We offer surf lessons for all levels—right here in the waves that inspired the stories behind the museum walls.
Book a Cornwall Surf Lesson
We’re based in Newquay, just a short drive from from Falmouth. All kit included & expert tuition guaranteed!
