Uncovering Britain’s Great Barrier Reef that’s Hidden in the UK
The UK is home to the longest chalk reef in Europe that’s been nicknamed Britain’s Great Barrier Reef by marine experts. Destinations like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in the Philippines spring to mind when picturing a reef bed.
The Greatness of the Norfolk Coast Reef Bed
Discovering Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed – The Marvel of Europe
Even though the UK is far from having a tropical climate, which we typically associate with barrier reefs, there are still a couple of thriving reef beds in UK waters. One of those places is the Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed, which is said to be the largest of its kind in Europe. Located just off the Norfolk Coast, the reef was only discovered 10 years ago, and is often referred to as Britain’s Great Barrier Reef by marine conservationists.
Marine Life in the Hidden Treasure of Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed
Stretching for roughly 20 miles, Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed was made a Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs. Spanning for more than 20 miles, the 100-million-year-old reef provides 350 species of marine plants and animals with a habitat. Species like crabs, lobsters, starfish, sea cucumbers, cuttlefish, sea bass, sea scorpions, and jellyfish live in the Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed.
Unique Treasures Underwater
The English reef is also thought to be the only place where a purple sponge called Parpal Dumplin is found, with the sea species only being discovered in 2011. Other features are also hiding under the water’s surface, including deep chasms that were made during the Ice Age.
Diving into the Wonders of Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in the Norfolk Chalk Reef
Because of its unique marine life, Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed is a popular spot with scuba divers. Divers can reach the reef from seaside towns like Cley and Bacton on the Norfolk Coast. “There are many sites where it is possible to SCUBA dive or snorkel the Norfolk chalk reef from the shore.”
Exploring Britain’s Hidden Natural Wonders
The Landscapes Beyond Our Imagination
Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed isn’t the only reef bed in the UK; there’s also the Thanet Coast chalk reef in Kent – the second largest reef in the UK. The UK is home to plenty of other lesser-known landscapes, including Borrowdale Rainforest. Borrowdale Rainforest is the biggest temperate rainforest in the country, and one of the last remaining examples of a “mysterious and untouched” landscape in the UK.
Unveiling the wonders of the UK’s marine world and hidden landscapes only adds to the rich diversity of natural beauty that exists closer to home.
Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Finest Creations
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Witness the Marine Paradise of the Reef
Around 350 species live in the reef. It is possible to see some of the reef from snorkeling alone. Divers can reach the reef from seaside towns like Cley and Bacton.