Gildenburgh Water at Whittlesey near Peterborough, was the First BSAC UK Centre of Excellence for diving, and its facilities have been recognised by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) who regularly organise their instructor examinations at the lake.
Thousands of divers have learned to dive at this amazing inland dive site which is famous for its many underwater platforms which enable trainees to safely master their basic diving skills in controlled conditions before progressing to Britain’s Secret Seas.
There is plenty to hold your interest once you’re qualified including 2 aircraft, a double decker bus, and numerous fascinating wrecks. The lake has been a developing sanctuary for big fish and lush plant life since 1934 when the former brickworks closed down, and divers regularly encounter 40lb carp, eels and pike.
In March 1985 Ian and Pauline Forster, the current owners, bought the lake and 30 acres of surrounding land and have developed a full range of ancillary facilities. With varying depths from 1m to 22m, it is considered by many divers to be the best National Inland Dive Site in the UK.
You don’t need to be a member, and if you need a buddy there’s a good chance Gildy will find one for you. Just call Pauline on 01733 351288, email ian@gildenburgh.com, or visit www.gildenburgh.com.