Bamburgh is ideally situated on the dramatic coastline of Northumberland. Only three miles from Seahouses which is the primary embarkation point for charters out to sea, especially around Holy Island and the Farne Islands.
The Farne Islands, consisting of many small islands and outcrops, are a thriving ecological phenomenon, home to many colonies of sea birds. If you’re lucky enough to visit during breeding season, it’s not a sight you’re likely to forget.
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The Farne Islands are also home to a large population of Grey Seals. These seemingly comical characters on land become something quite different under water. A large Bull, can weigh around 300 kilograms and are less likely to be found funny when you encounter them face to face.
Aside from this five thousand strong seal population, there are a variety of curious aquatic life forms to engage, from giant anemones to the formidable Seawolf which grows to about a meter and a half in length.
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Due to the treacherous nature of the coastline, there are plenty of wrecks close to the Farnes, including the famous passenger-cargo ship, the Somali. It was built in 1930 and was hit by a German Bomber in March 1941. Most of the hull is intact and it stands upright in about thirty meters of water, making it a great dive for intermediate or novice divers.
For the experienced, there are quite a few hazardous wrecks. The Chris Christenson, a Danish Streamer which sank around the time of the First World War, lies at the bottom a reef about 34 meters down, close to a dangerous current just a few meters further down. This is a slack water dive, for experts only.
Whether you’re experienced or a beginner, like shallow water or deep water dives, the coastline of Northumberland has a variety of exciting attractions as well as highly experienced divers ready to advise you and get you safely into the water.
With its wonderful castle and all the history that is so evident in the area, Bamburgh is fast gaining a reputation for one of the most pleasurable dive venues in the United Kingdom. Ideally situated close to the Farne Islands with it marvellous wildlife, thousands of Grey Seals and numerous wrecks, charters from nearby Beadnell Bay and Seahouses make the waters very accessible. With a great variety of dives, from the safe beginner dives, to those exclusively for the experienced, it is a great venue for everyone.
Although the coast does have a reputation for being quite hazardous and dives should only be attempted with the assistance of one of the experienced professionals operating in the area. Certain conditions will preclude some of the more dangerous wreck dives, but those who know the coast will almost certainly be able to find an alternative spot.
Most people choosing to dive off the coast of historic Bamburgh will charter a boat from either Seahouses of Beadnell Bay, two harbour towns within a few miles of this popular dive area. Bamburgh’s close proximity to the Farne Islands and Holy Island make it ideal for anyone hoping to catch some of the rich wildlife found in the waters.
More than 5000 grey seals live in these waters and are quite a formidable sight when seen up close in their own habitat. From wrecks to reefs, Bamburgh offers various diving opportunities for both beginners and the experienced. The guidance of a professional is imperative since the area is known for its dangerous coast and many dives are strictly slack water.
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