Just because London isn’t located by the seaside doesn’t mean that opportunities for scuba diving are out of reach. Despite the city’s geographical constraints, it has a surprisingly thriving dive scene. Several exceptional dive shops cater to newbies and seasoned pros alike, and there are plenty of places to plunge into the underwater world around the UK.
The 7 Best Dive Shops in London
Can You Dive in London?
You might wonder, can you really scuba dive in a city more known for its double-decker buses and iconic Big Ben than its diving spots? The answer is a resounding yes. While London itself might not be a diving hotspot, its diving shops provide everything you need – from gear, lessons, certification courses, and diving trip arrangements – to explore the underwater world.
Where Can You Dive in London?
When it comes to actual dive spots, Londoners and visitors can enjoy many sites located within a few hours’ drive, such as Wraysbury Dive Centre or the National Diving and Activity Centre. You can also venture out to the UK’s coasts, which boast an impressive array of dive spots. Here, you can discover historic shipwrecks, expansive underwater caves, and a variety of marine life.
Now, let’s delve into the best dive shops London has to offer, places where you can get your equipment, take your PADI courses, or organize your next diving trip.
The 7 Best Dive Shops in London
1. Mike's Dive Store
Operating for over 30 years, Mike’s Dive Store is the UK’s leading dive retailer. Their shop is a one-stop destination for all things diving. From top-of-the-line equipment, accessories, and knowledgeable staff, to the option of online shopping, Mike’s provides a comprehensive diving service.
2. Ocean Leisure
As London’s premier watersports store, Ocean Leisure offers a broad range of diving gear. Apart from sales, they also offer rentals for those not ready to invest in their own equipment yet. This, combined with their central London location, makes Ocean Leisure a convenient choice.
3. Amphibian Scuba
If you’re looking for expert advice and personalised service, then Amphibian Scuba is a great option. They offer a wide variety of diving courses, equipment sales, rental and servicing, as well as dive travel services.
4. Big Squid
Located in Clapham, Big Squid boasts a friendly dive community and offers diving courses from beginners to advanced levels. They also organize regular diving trips around the UK and abroad.
5. Oyster Diving
This award-winning PADI 5-star dive center is known for its high-quality scuba instruction. Oyster Diving also hosts a diving club that organizes fun social events and diving trips to locations like the Maldives, Egypt, and the UK coast.
6. Aquanaut Scuba
Aquanaut Scuba, located in Kingston, offers a full range of PADI diving courses, equipment sales, and servicing. This dive shop is distinguished by its own dive club, creating a community of divers that share the same passion. They also provide training sessions in a heated indoor pool for a comfortable learning environment.
7. Dive Wimbledon
Finally, we have Dive Wimbledon, a 5-star PADI dive centre that offers scuba diving and freediving courses. They boast a dedicated following due to their comprehensive training, top-quality gear, and welcoming atmosphere. Dive Wimbledon is not only a shop but a hub for divers, offering regular UK and international trips, and fostering a vibrant community.
Is Scuba Diving in the UK Good?
You might be asking, “Is scuba diving in the UK worth it?” The answer is a definitive yes. While the UK may not have the tropical waters found in more conventional dive destinations, it offers unique underwater experiences that are just as intriguing. From the historical shipwrecks around Scapa Flow in Scotland and the Lundy Island Marine Conservation Zone with its seals and diverse marine life, to the dramatic underwater landscapes along the Jurassic Coast, there is a wealth of diving opportunities.
What Time of Year is Best to Dive in the UK?
While you can dive year-round in the UK, the best time is generally between May and October. The summer months offer warmer waters, better visibility, and a wider variety of marine life. However, winter diving can also be rewarding, with fewer divers and unique species that are more prevalent during these colder months.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dive Shops in London
London may not seem like an obvious choice for diving enthusiasts, but its rich selection of dive shops offers both residents and visitors a surprising depth of opportunities. These dive shops cater to every need, from high-quality equipment and expert training to trips that transport you to underwater sites around the UK and beyond. Diving in the UK is an experience unlike any other, filled with unique underwater landscapes and rich marine life waiting to be explored. So why not plunge in?
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or an enthusiastic beginner, the thriving dive community in London awaits. These seven shops embody the best the city has to offer in terms of diving – a combination of expertise, quality gear, friendly service, and passion for the underwater world. Explore their websites, see what they offer, and perhaps you’ll find your new diving home among them. Dive in and explore the underwater treasures that await you in the UK!