A Visit to Vobster Quay!
Nestled in the heart of the Somerset countryside, Vobster Quay is a diver's paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and underwater adventure. This former quarry has been transformed into one of the UK's premier inland dive sites, attracting divers of all levels who are eager to explore its depths. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting your underwater journey, Vobster Quay provides an unforgettable diving experience that keeps enthusiasts coming back for more
The History and Transformation of Vobster Quay
Vobster Quay began its life as a limestone quarry, a bustling industrial site where stone was extracted for construction. When quarrying operations ceased in the late 1970s, the site was gradually flooded, creating a deep, clear lake that now serves as a thriving underwater playground. The transformation from quarry to dive site was carefully managed, with a focus on safety, accessibility, and environmental stewardship. Today, Vobster Quay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, which offer visibility of up to 20 meters on a good day, making it an ideal location for training dives, photography, and exploration. The site is well-maintained, with excellent facilities that include a dive shop, equipment rental, and a cozy café where divers can warm up after a chilly dip in the water
Vobster Quay began its life as a limestone quarry, a bustling industrial site where stone was extracted for construction. When quarrying operations ceased in the late 1970s, the site was gradually flooded, creating a deep, clear lake that now serves as a thriving underwater playground. The transformation from quarry to dive site was carefully managed, with a focus on safety, accessibility, and environmental stewardship. Today, Vobster Quay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, which offer visibility of up to 20 meters on a good day, making it an ideal location for training dives, photography, and exploration. The site is well-maintained, with excellent facilities that include a dive shop, equipment rental, and a cozy café where divers can warm up after a chilly dip in the water
What Makes Vobster Quay Special?
Vobster Quay stands out among UK dive sites for several reasons. Here are a few highlights that make it a must-visit destination:
Vobster Quay stands out among UK dive sites for several reasons. Here are a few highlights that make it a must-visit destination:
- Diverse Dive SitesVobster Quay boasts a variety of underwater attractions that cater to different interests and skill levels. The lake is home to a fascinating array of submerged features, including a sunken airplane, a shipping container, and several vehicles. These make for exciting dive sites, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and underwater photography. For those seeking a bit of a challenge, there's even a deep diving area that reaches depths of up to 36 meters.
- Abundant Marine LifeWhile Vobster Quay might be an inland site, it’s far from lacking in marine life. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of freshwater species, including perch, carp, and trout. The site is also part of a conservation effort, with artificial reefs and structures that help support the local ecosystem. These efforts ensure that Vobster remains a vibrant and thriving habitat, providing divers with plenty of underwater wildlife to observe.
- Year-Round DivingOne of the great advantages of Vobster Quay is that it’s open for diving year-round. The site's sheltered location means that it's relatively unaffected by weather conditions, allowing for consistent diving opportunities regardless of the season. The water temperature varies, but with the right equipment, divers can enjoy the site’s offerings even in the cooler months. For those interested in training, Vobster's reliable conditions make it an ideal place to complete courses or fine-tune skills.
- Top-Notch FacilitiesVobster Quay is well-equipped to meet the needs of divers. The on-site dive shop offers a wide range of gear for sale and hire, making it easy for visitors to get everything they need for a successful dive. The filling station provides air, nitrox, and trimix, ensuring that technical divers are also well catered for. After a dive, the café is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a hot drink or meal, with stunning views over the lake.
- Supportive Diving CommunityPerhaps one of the most compelling reasons to dive at Vobster Quay is the strong sense of community among divers. The site is a hub for both recreational and technical divers, and it’s common to see groups working together on training, sharing tips, or simply enjoying the day out. The friendly atmosphere is welcoming to newcomers, making it a great place to learn and grow as a diver.
Diving at Vobster Quay: What to Expect
When planning a dive at Vobster Quay, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have the best possible experience:
When planning a dive at Vobster Quay, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have the best possible experience:
- Pre-Booking: Vobster Quay operates on a members pre-booking system, though they are now open to non members on a Sunday afternoon. Make sure to book your diving slot in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Safety First: The site is managed with a strong emphasis on safety. Briefings are provided for all divers, and the staff are always on hand to assist with any queries or issues.
- Cold Water Diving: Depending on the time of year, the water at Vobster can be quite chilly. A drysuit is recommended for most dives, particularly during the winter months, to ensure comfort and safety.
- Training Opportunities: Vobster Quay is an excellent location for dive training, with several instructors and dive schools using the site regularly. Whether you're looking to complete an Open Water course or advance your technical diving skills, Vobster offers a supportive environment for learning.
Conclusion
Vobster Quay is more than just a dive site; it's a vibrant community and a gateway to a world of underwater exploration. With its diverse dive sites, abundant marine life, and excellent facilities, it’s no wonder that divers from across the UK and beyond are drawn to this hidden gem. Whether you're diving for fun, training for a new certification, or simply looking to connect with fellow diving enthusiasts, Vobster Quay offers an experience that is as enriching as it is exciting.
So, if you haven’t yet explored the depths of Vobster Quay, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, book your spot, and get ready to dive into one of the UK’s most beloved diving destinations
Vobster Quay is more than just a dive site; it's a vibrant community and a gateway to a world of underwater exploration. With its diverse dive sites, abundant marine life, and excellent facilities, it’s no wonder that divers from across the UK and beyond are drawn to this hidden gem. Whether you're diving for fun, training for a new certification, or simply looking to connect with fellow diving enthusiasts, Vobster Quay offers an experience that is as enriching as it is exciting.
So, if you haven’t yet explored the depths of Vobster Quay, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, book your spot, and get ready to dive into one of the UK’s most beloved diving destinations
Photos by Ashley Smith and Zak Egan
