The Manacles
50° 2' 39" N 5° 2' 57" WThe Manacles is a treacherous group of rocks located off the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula.
The Manacles stretch for approximately one nautical mile with the majority of the reef submerged. Due to its large expanse, The Manacle Bell helps warn ships of their proximity to the rocks during rough seas.
As the Manacles has a large amount of shipwrecks, it’s a popular location for scuba divers to explore, not only for the wrecks but for the reef itself, which is home to a large variety of marine life and coral species.
One of the most well-know wrecks is that of the SS Mohegan which ran aground on 14th October 1898 with 106 lives lost.
The Manacles has been a Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) since 2013.
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History of The Manacles
The Manacles is a group of treacherous rocks and reefs located off the coast of Cornwall, near the Lizard Peninsula. These rocks are considered as one of the most hazardous areas for ships in the British Isles, with over a hundred known shipwrecks, including the HMS Primrose in 1809 and the SS Mohegan in 1898.
The name “Manacles” is believed to have originated from the Cornish word “mynydd”, meaning “rocky peaks”. The Manacles reef is said to have been created as a result of a curse by a mermaid who was betrayed by a local fisherman. The mermaid’s curse caused a storm that destroyed the fisherman’s village and created the treacherous reef as a warning to other sailors.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, The Manacles were notorious for being a haven for smugglers who used the hidden coves and inlets to land their contraband goods. They were also used as a refuge for pirates who preyed on the ships that sailed along the Cornish coast.
Today, The Manacles are a popular spot for divers who explore the numerous shipwrecks that lie on the seabed. The area is also known for its rich marine life, including a variety of fish, seals, and even basking sharks that can be spotted during the summer months.