HAWKWOOD - Northumberland & Northeast

The Hawkwood, oh, she’s a beauty, especially for a shallower wreck. We love how accessible she is, sitting bolt upright in just three metres of water. It means you get incredible bottom time, really letting you soak in the details. You’ll find her off Beadnell, and while she’s not the most intact wreck, the sheer scale of the boilers and triple expansion engine is impressive. The steel framework, picked clean over the decades, now forms a skeletal home for lobsters and crabs. Look closely, and you’ll spot plumose anemones waving like tiny white flags in any surge. We often head out around high tide; the light penetration then is fantastic, especially on a sunny day. It makes the bronze hues of the steel really pop. This site is brilliant for newer wreck divers, or anyone who just wants a relaxed potter around a piece of history. There’s no challenging current to fight, and the visibility, while it can be typical North Sea green, often clears up nicely, giving you a good 5-8 metres on a decent day. It’s a proper historical dive without the depth demands.

Location
Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
54.654150, -1.167433
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

Marine Protected Area: Teesmouth and Cleveland Coast

Nearby Dive Sites in Northumberland & Northeast

Nearest Dive Centres to HAWKWOOD

Marine Life in Northumberland & Northeast

Home to 132 recorded species including 53 reef fish, 15 whales & dolphins, 11 sharks & rays, 10 other, 10 seagrass & algae, 9 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the HAWKWOOD dive site?
The HAWKWOOD dive site features a typical depth of 3 meters, making it a relatively shallow and accessible wreck dive. This allows for extended bottom times to explore the remains of the steam ship vessel. You can find more details about this unique site in HAWKWOOD's dive site profile.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at HAWKWOOD?
Divers at HAWKWOOD can expect to explore the impressive underwater features of a steam ship vessel, sunk on January 27, 1942. This wreck, measuring 81.6m x 12.5m, is classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, and still features two boilers and a triple expansion engine. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about general marine life in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the HAWKWOOD dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The HAWKWOOD dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This classification suggests it is suitable for divers with some prior experience rather than absolute beginners. For more information on the site's characteristics, please visit the HAWKWOOD dive site page.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at HAWKWOOD for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at HAWKWOOD for optimal conditions. For general guidance on planning your dives and understanding seasonal variations, you might consult our When to Dive section. Always check local conditions before planning your trip to HAWKWOOD.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at HAWKWOOD?
The available data does not detail any specific diving certifications required to dive at the HAWKWOOD site. However, given its intermediate difficulty and status as a wreck dive, divers should possess appropriate certification and experience for such conditions. It's always best to consult with local dive operators in Northumberland & Northeast for their specific requirements.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at the HAWKWOOD dive site?
The provided data does not include information regarding the usual currents or water conditions at the HAWKWOOD dive site. For the most current and accurate details on conditions, it is highly recommended to consult local dive centers or guides in the Northumberland & Northeast region before planning your dive to HAWKWOOD.