JESMOND

Best months: Jul–Sep

Protected Area

Gouliot Caves and Headland, Sark

Why dive here

With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - JESMOND offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.

Best timeJul–Sep

WetsuitA 5mm wetsuit

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 176+ species recorded

Water10-18°C · warmest July, August, September

CharacterWreck dive · max 11m

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

The Jesmond. Oh, she's a beauty, and a proper piece of history right there in Lyme Bay. We've always had a soft spot for wrecks that feel more like artificial reefs, and the Jesmond absolutely delivers on that front. This brigantine went down in 1884, and time, tide, and the local marine life have truly made her their own. At just 11 metres, she’s an ideal second dive or a fantastic spot for newer wreck divers to get a feel for things without worrying about deco. What we love about the Jesmond is the way the wreck itself has become completely encrusted. We’re talking dense blankets of jewel anemones, particularly vibrant oranges and purples, so thick they almost look like living carpets. Lobsters peek out from every conceivable crevice, their antennae waving lazily, and you’ll often find dogfish resting amongst the scattered timbers. It's not a wreck you penetrate, but rather one you swim over and around, enjoying the colourful explosion of life that has colonised every surface. The visibility can vary, but even on a slightly murkier day, the sheer density of growth on the Jesmond makes her a compelling dive. Our tip? Go at slack tide to really appreciate the anemones fully unfurled.