Wreck of Urmstone Grange
Protected Area
Hoy and West Mainland
Why dive here
With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Wreck of Urmstone Grange offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
Dropping onto the Urmstone Grange, you immediately feel the scale. This isn't some scattered debris; it's a solid, industrial wreck. We love how intact the stern section feels, almost like she just settled there yesterday, rather than nearly a century ago. The holds are our favourite part to explore, especially when the light is good enough to pick out the details of the internal structures. Look for the massive prop, too, often shrouded in dabs and tiny crabs. The wreck itself has a moody, atmospheric character. It's colder here, darker than most diving, but that's part of its charm. Visibility, typically 5-10 metres, lends an eerie feel. You’ll often spot massive plumose anemones carpeting the deeper sections, their white frills swaying gently. We’ve seen conger eels poking out from shadowy corners and schools of saithe darting through the superstructure. It suits divers who appreciate history, enjoy penetrations, and don't mind a bit of chill for a unique experience. Come prepared for cold water, even in summer, and bring a good torch; you’ll want it for peering into those deeper holds.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Nearest Dive Centres to Wreck of Urmstone Grange
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Urmstone Grange
Wreck of Urmstone Grange Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Wreck of Urmstone Grange, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
13°C
55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C
Air Temperature
10°C
50°F
Wind Speed
9.26 m/s
18.0 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1005.3 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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