45 Year Anniversary of Northshore Surf Shop Newquay

It all started with a 16-year-old, an SX200 scooter, and an 18-hour journey to Newquay — long before the days of motorways and easy travel. What was meant to be a holiday turned into something much bigger: a lifelong connection with the sea, the town, and the people that make Newquay what it is.

In 1980, Aggsy Baird opened his first surf shop with his best mate, John Midgley. The pair took on a small spot next to the old Upper and Lower Deck restaurant on Fore Street, launching a business that would grow into one of Newquay’s most recognisable surf shops. With roots in the local scene and a genuine love for the surf, they opened Sunny Days — and from there, Northshore was born.

Now, 45 years later, Aggsy sits above the current shop at 36 Fore Street, still surrounded by the same passion and community that fuelled it from the start. The business has moved through five locations, but the mission’s never changed: honest gear, expert advice, and a real connection to the waves. That legacy now runs through generations — from Aggsy’s grandson Beau, to the tight-knit team that includes longtime staff like Eleanor Dixon and Jonny Colaco, both part of the shop's fabric for decades. Most came in off the street or through family, and stayed because Northshore feels like home.

Alongside the retail story runs a commitment to Newquay itself. From supporting Newquay Boardriders to helping local groms get in the water, Aggsy puts it simply: “Without local kids surfing, there isn’t a future surf community.” That philosophy has kept Northshore grounded for 45 years — not just as a shop, but as part of the town’s surf culture.

To mark this milestone, we’ve launched a limited edition run of 45th Anniversary T-Shirts — and true to our ethos, they’re made with care for the coast we love. Each tee is crafted from organic cotton and printed just a stone’s throw from the surf, right here in Newquay. We use water-based inks, not just for their minimal environmental impact, but because they feel better too — softer on the skin, longer lasting through wear, and ready for whatever adventure comes next. It’s all about gear that looks good, feels good, and does right by the sea.

See the Anniversary Collection Here

Drop in, meet the team, and be part of the journey. Here’s to the next wave.