GLADSTONE - Northumberland & Northeast

The Gladstone is a proper piece of history, just off the Northumberland coast. We’ve always had a soft spot for it. She was a sailing vessel, sunk back in 1881 by a newly launched ship. You drop down to 17 metres and the bow is usually the first thing that materialises from the green, often silty water. It’s an honest dive, no fancy frills, just good solid wreck diving. The wreck itself is around 36 metres long, quite spread out but still recognisably a ship. You can make out the ribs and planks, a real skeletal structure. It’s a great rummage dive, perfect for a torch. Look into the smaller nooks and crannies. Our favourite finds are always the lobsters tucked deep inside, sometimes you’ll see half a dozen just by taking your time. Cod cruise past, often pretty large ones, and the anenomes are a vibrant splash of colour on the old metal. It’s a site for those who appreciate history and don’t mind a bit of a low-visibility challenge. Best on a slack tide, obviously, to avoid too much current and get the most out of your bottom time.

Location

Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

53.390816, -2.998016

Type

wreck

Maximum Depth

17m

Marine Protected Area: New Ferry