Northumberland

The most popular dive sites in Northumberland, United Kingdom are in the Farne Islands, specifically areas known for grey seal interactions like the Blue Caps or Longstone End. Divers travel from all over the world for the chance to have playful encounters with these curious marine mammals. The seals often come close, nibbling on fins and interacting with divers, making it an unforgettable and sought-after experience. The relative clarity of the water in this area also adds to its popularity.

Well-known sites include the wreck of the SS Somali in the Farne Islands. The St Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve, just across the Scottish border, is also a very popular day trip from Northumberland. For less crowded or 'hidden gem' dives, consider exploring the wreck of the Acclivity near Beadnell or undertaking shore dives from Beadnell Bay or Craster. These sites offer rewarding experiences with less boat traffic than the main Farne Islands locations.

Water temperature in Northumberland, United Kingdom is consistently cold. During the winter months (December to March), temperatures typically range from 4-6°C (39-43°F). In the peak summer season (July to September), the water warms up to a maximum of 12-14°C (54-57°F). Due to these chilly conditions, a drysuit is considered essential for comfortable and safe diving throughout the entire year. It rarely, if ever, reaches temperatures suitable for standard wetsuits.

The best time to visit Northumberland, United Kingdom for diving is from July to October. During these late summer and early autumn months, the water temperature is at its warmest and underwater visibility is often at its peak. This period also coincides with when the year's seal pups become more curious and interactive with divers. The surface weather is generally more stable, leading to fewer cancelled boat trips and more pleasant conditions overall.

Underwater visibility in Northumberland, United Kingdom is highly variable, influenced by weather, tides, and plankton blooms. On an average day during the main dive season, you can expect visibility in the range of 5-10 metres (16-33 feet). However, after periods of calm weather, it can improve significantly to over 15 metres (50 feet). Conversely, after storms or during a heavy plankton bloom, it can drop to less than 3 metres (10 feet).

The primary seasonal event in Northumberland, United Kingdom is the grey seal breeding season. Pups are born ashore in late autumn. From late summer onwards, the younger seals become incredibly curious and playful with divers. While there are no large migrations of manta rays or whale sharks, the area is a crucial habitat for seabirds like puffins (April-July), which can be seen from the boat, adding to the overall wildlife experience of visiting the Farne Islands.

The star attraction is the large colony of playful grey seals. Beyond the seals, you can expect to see a rich variety of North Atlantic marine life in Northumberland, United Kingdom. This includes various species of wrasse, pollack, and cod hiding in the kelp and wrecks. Lobsters and crabs are common in rocky crevices. The reefs and wrecks themselves are covered in colourful plumose anemones, dead man's fingers (a soft coral), and numerous smaller invertebrate species.

A drysuit is the standard and highly recommended choice for diving in Northumberland, United Kingdom year-round. Water temperatures rarely exceed 14°C (57°F) even in peak summer. If you do not have a drysuit, a 7mm semi-dry wetsuit with an integrated hood, plus thick gloves and boots, would be the absolute minimum for summer diving. However, you will likely still get very cold, and most local divers and operators will insist on a drysuit for safety and comfort.

To get to Northumberland, United Kingdom, most visitors fly into Newcastle International Airport (NCL). From the airport, it is approximately a one-hour drive to Seahouses, the main port for Farne Islands dive boats. Renting a car is the most convenient way to travel and transport dive gear. Alternatively, you can take a train to nearby stations like Alnmouth or Berwick-upon-Tweed and then use a taxi to reach your coastal accommodation.

Diving in Northumberland, United Kingdom is entirely shore-based; there are no dedicated liveaboards operating in the area. The standard practice is to stay in a hotel, B&B, or holiday rental in a coastal town like Seahouses. From there, you will join daily boat trips, typically on fast RIBs or hard boats, which take you out to the Farne Islands or other local wreck sites. This model provides flexibility and access to onshore amenities after your dives.