The largest ship graveyard in Britain is just 45 minutes from Bristol – and it has over 80 decaying abandoned boats

There’s no sight quite as creepy as seeing dozens of abandoned boats decaying on dry land. How did they all end up here? What happened to the crew? Well, as much as I’d love to spin some ghostly tale of sirens luring fishermen up the Bristol Channel, the true story of the Purton Ships Graveyard is just as interesting. 

When a riverbank collapsed in 1909, concerns were raised about the strong currents along the River Severn (some so strong you can surf them), and so began the six-decade job of abandoning all types of barges, trows and schooners off the southern bank near Purton to slow them down and prevent further erosion.

Up until the 1970s, but mostly in the 1950s, boats with holes in them were towed up the shore and left to settle into the bank. But enough time has passed now that many of the decaying vessels are seemingly growing out of the ground, and as it has built up, a few barges can even be found lying on top of earlier ones. 

You will now find the largest ship graveyard in mainland Britain at Purton Hulks, which features over 80 abandoned boats for reinforcing the riverbank. Just 45 minutes from Bristol (up the A38), there is parking opposite the church in Purton. From here, walk to Sharpness via Purton Ships Graveyard for a scenic nature trail like no other.

What else is there to do nearby?

While you’re up here, why not make a whole day of it. Purton Hulks is only a stone’s throw from WWT Slimbridge wetlands—home to swans, geese, kingfishers and even flamingos throughout the year—as well as the 12th-century Berkeley Castle. You can just grab a pint from Sharpness Sports and Social Club if that’s more your thing.

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