MIDDLESEX - Cornwall & Devon

The Middlesex, off the coast of Cornwall, is a proper chunk of history on the seabed. We love it because it’s a big wreck, 140 metres long, and you really feel the scale as you descend onto it. Sunk in 1941, this steamship lies in about 24 metres, providing plenty of structure to explore. You’ll find schools of bib and pollack darting through the superstructure, and the boilers are always a favourite spot to peer into – watch for conger eels tucked away in the shadows. Visibility can be a typical UK affair, sometimes a bit murky, but on a good day, the sheer size of the Middlesex is impressive. It’s a dive for those who appreciate the weight of history and don't mind a bit of a current. We’d suggest timing your dive for slack water to make the most of the deck exploration; otherwise, it can be a bit of a workout. It’s a site for experienced divers, given the depth and potential for currents, but totally worth it for the sense of discovery.

Location
Cornwall & Devon, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
51.355650, -3.168067
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
24m

Marine Protected Area: Flat Holm

Best Time to Dive in Cornwall & Devon

The warmest water temperatures in Cornwall & Devon occur in January, averaging 9.6°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 9.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 9.6°C (air: 7.3°C)
  • February: 9.6°C (air: 8.4°C)
  • March: 9.6°C (air: 8.6°C)
  • April: 9.6°C (air: 10.1°C)
  • May: 9.6°C (air: 12.6°C)
  • June: 9.6°C (air: 15.2°C)
  • July: 9.6°C (air: 16.6°C)
  • August: 9.6°C (air: 17.1°C)
  • September: 9.6°C (air: 15.9°C)
  • October: 9.6°C (air: 13.5°C)
  • November: 9.6°C (air: 10.7°C)
  • December: 9.6°C (air: 8.7°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cornwall & Devon

Nearest Dive Centres to MIDDLESEX

Marine Life in Cornwall & Devon

Home to 192 recorded species including 93 reef fish, 18 sharks & rays, 13 whales & dolphins, 11 crabs & lobsters, 11 other, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for MIDDLESEX

Based on average water temperature of 9.6°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 10°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths encountered when diving in Middlesex?
When diving the Middlesex wreck, divers can expect a typical depth of 24 meters. This makes it an accessible dive for those with appropriate training and experience for intermediate sites.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see in Middlesex?
The primary underwater feature at Middlesex is a substantial steam ship vessel, measuring 140.2m x 19.1m, which sank on January 10, 1941. While specific marine life details are not provided in our current data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time. You can learn more about general marine life in the area by exploring our wildlife database.
How challenging are the dive sites in Middlesex for different skill levels?
Diving the Middlesex wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," which implies certain hazards that intermediate divers should be prepared for. Proper training and experience with wreck diving are highly recommended for this site.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Middlesex for optimal conditions?
Our current data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Middlesex. Conditions in Cornwall & Devon can vary seasonally. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving in Middlesex?
Given the 24-meter depth, intermediate difficulty, and its classification as a "Dangerous wreck," an Advanced Open Water certification is generally recommended for diving Middlesex. Additionally, specialized wreck diving certifications would be highly beneficial to safely navigate and explore this significant vessel.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like for diving in Middlesex?
Our current data does not provide specific details regarding the usual currents or water conditions, such as temperature or visibility, for diving at Middlesex. Divers should always check local conditions with a dive operator before planning their dive.