When traveling to the UK, you will find that there are many different spots that are ideal for scuba diving. Whether you are new to the sport or are a vastly experienced scuba diver, there are a wide variety of locations that will cater to your specific skill level. You may opt to discover the hidden gems with friends and family or with a guide who can show you the ropes at various diving spots throughout the country. Not only does the United Kingdom provide divers with views of beautiful marine life and underwater scenery, but you may also find yourself up close with sunken ships, shallow reefs and larger marine creatures such as seals. These top scuba diving locations are must-sees while traveling through the UK.
Plymouth, Devon, England
Plymouth in Devon, England is truly one of the most unique spots to enjoy scuba diving in the entire United Kingdom. It is here that you will find a large selection of ship wrecks, reefs and shoals deep within the waters. This area is ideal for moderate to advanced divers including sections such as HMS Scylla. The Hands Deep area is even known as one of the most clear diving reefs in the UK, providing you with amazing views of sealife right at your fingertips. When diving in Plymouth, you may see famous ship wrecks including the US ship Eagan Layne that was sunk during World War 2.
Porthkerris, Cornwall, England
The beautiful cove of Porthkerris in Cornwall, England is the perfect place for divers to enjoy a sheltered area complete with shallow reefs and drop-offs ideal for scuba diving. Invertebrates are some of the most popular types of sea species to see here due to high tides that this diving area offers. In addition to sea creatures and tropical fish, divers may also encounter the SS Mohegan passenger liner ship wreck that occurred in 1898.
Anglesey, Wales
Anglesey, Wales is known as one of the very best scuba diving locations in the entire United Kingdom. From a plethora of marine life and coral reefs to ship wrecks and tropical fish, you never know what you may encounter while diving in Anglesey. Pinnacle and drift diving is also very popular in this region of Wales. Some top diving spots within Anglesey include Holyhead, Trearddur Bay and coves that can be found all around Holy Island. Holy Island coves are ideal for those looking for shore diving, as they are protected from offshore currents and provide visitors with a beautiful, unspoiled and un-populated area for diving.
St Abbs, Scotland
Head to the North Sea coast of Scotland to find the St Abbs Marine Reserve. This popular diving location offers some of the best shore diving excursions in the United Kingdom. Deep waters close to the shore along with strong tides provide scuba divers with the best of both worlds. Be sure to head to Cathedral Rock just 50m off shore while diving here to see this amazing underwater double archway. Marine life and kelp-topped gullies are just some of what you will see while diving here.
Jenn has been diving for years, working with Northern Divers has allowed her to share her love and knowledge of the sport with others.