I've only ever tried surfing once. Never again.

My ribs were left so badly battered and bruised by being whacked against the board that I was in pain every time I moved for the next fortnight.

That was in Byron Bay, the surfing capital of Australia. So I sure as hell wasn't going to reunite myself with a board on a wet and dreary morning in the Dorset seaside town of Boscombe.

But, as I battled the wind and rain on the promenade, I saw to my amazement that dozens of people were learning to surf in the freezing English Channel.

Water sports are big in Boscombe after the installation of Europe's first artificial reef to enhance wave conditions two years ago.

The £3 million structure has seen enthusiasts and curious tourists flock to the town, just two miles along the coast from Bournemouth.

This laid-back surfing culture can be found at the Urban Beach Hotel, where local hipsters sip cocktails in the popular bar and bistro.

A hearty breakfast from the impressive buffet is a good way to start a day by the seaside.

The hotel is just a five-minute walk to the beach and you can reach Bournemouth - with its traditional seaside attractions and trendy student vibe - in half-an-hour along the seafront.

For a relaxing evening, return to Boscombe for dinner at Urban Reef, a sister restaurant to Urban Beach Hotel just a few minutes away on the promenade.

With stunning panoramic views over Bournemouth Bay, it's the perfect place to enjoy delicious local food in a chilled-out atmosphere.

Casually-dressed, friendly staff put you at ease as they serve refreshingly well-sized portions of classic dishes with an international twist.

I'd certainly return to Boscombe for a relaxing break, so long as I don't have to surf!