Purton Hulks: Explore a Peaceful Ship Graveyard in Gloucestershire

In 1909, a riverbank collapse on the River Severn in Gloucestershire, England, led to concerns that a busy canal vital to the flow of goods and services would be compromised if the water level rose any higher. Old ships were intentionally beached to create a man-made barrier to protect the adjacent canal.

Today, Purton Hulks—otherwise known as Purton Ships’ Graveyard—features over 80 silt- and grass-filled ships in various states of decay. Once a bustling trade route, Purton Hulks is now a peaceful riverbank, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a quiet intermission during a busy day of traveling.

Each ship has a small plaque describing its make and purpose. One rectangular wooden ship, mostly reclaimed by grass and known as Harriet, has received Ancient Monument status—meaning she is considered historically important and protected from being altered or moved. In her heyday in the early 20th century, Harriet primarily transported grain and wood pulp.

Visitors can expect to spend about one to two hours surveying a variety of ships being reclaimed by nature. Purton Hulks is a surprisingly harmonious place. Seeing nature and man-made objects working together to elevate the landscape leaves visitors with a gentle sense of optimism.

Historians, ship lovers, and photographers will have a field day at Purton Hulks. Exploring the unique history of each vessel and photographing beached ships that resemble sculptures from a modern art museum is a lovely way to spend a late morning or early afternoon.

The River Severn is especially placid near Purton Hulks, making the area a wonderful place to kayak. Viewing the Purton Ships’ Graveyard from the water offers a panoramic perspective of one of Gloucestershire’s most captivating locations and provides a vivid sense of what life may have been like aboard these now-silent vessels.

Visiting a ship graveyard may sound ominous, but Purton Hulks is a refreshingly pleasant and uplifting place. Ships intentionally decommissioned to fortify the riverbank they once sailed past give the site a comforting circular quality. Rather than being discarded and forgotten, the vessels of Purton Hulks continue to serve a purpose long after being absorbed by the river that once sustained them.

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