Wreck of Hazelwood - Northumberland & Northeast

The Hazelwood, sitting upright on a sandy bottom, is one of those wrecks we keep coming back to. Drop down the shot line and you’ll find her surprisingly intact, a proper ship rather than just a pile of twisted metal. Her bow points east, and the stern, though collapsing a bit at the very back, still gives you plenty to peer into. We love finning along the deck, imagining her final moments, then ducking into the cargo holds – they’re fairly open, so penetration is straightforward for competent divers. Look closely, and you’ll spot plumose anemones carpeting the bulkheads, their white tentacles swaying in the gentle surge. Crab species are everywhere, scuttling into crevices as you approach, and we’ve often found substantial ling lurking within the darker corners of the engine room. Our favourite spot is the propeller – it’s a real magnet for schooling coalfish. This is a dive for those who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a chill; the visibility can be excellent on a good day, but it’s Northumberland, so be ready for anything. It’s a site that rewards multiple visits, revealing new details each time.

Location

Northumberland & Northeast, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe

Coordinates

54.860092, -3.684427

Type

wreck

Marine Protected Area: Solway Firth