What Are The Largest Natural Harbours in The UK?

Across the globe, there are thousands of harbours, all varying in size and shipping capability. In the UK alone there are 400 harbours and ports, but out of all of these which are the largest natural harbours? In this blog, our shipping experts will discuss all about natural harbours in the UK.

So, what is the largest natural harbour in the UK? The four largest natural harbours in the UK include Falmouth Docks, Plymouth Harbour, Weymouth Harbour, and Poole Harbour. Poole Harbour is the biggest out of this collection with it actually being the largest natural harbour in all of Europe and the second-largest natural harbour in the world.

Read on to learn more about the largest natural harbours in the UK and what makes these locations so unique.

What Is a Natural Harbour?

A natural harbour is a landform where a portion of water is restricted to permit the transfer of goods. These landforms allow the transfer of goods due to the fact that they are protected as well as deep enough to provide anchorage to boats.

From a natural harbour, shipping objects are easy to project and subject. The reason is that a harbour is surrounded by land. On the other hand, an artificial harbour requires maintenance in terms of construction.

That’s why natural harbours have great economic value, which is why major cities across the world are located close to them.

What are the Largest Natural Harbours in the UK?

Despite being a small island, the UK is home to some of the world’s largest natural harbours. Home to over 400 harbours and ports, we’ve highlighted some of the largest harbours in the UK in more detail below:

Falmouth Docks

One of the most famous attractions for Falmouth is the deep water docks of Falmouth town in England, United Kingdom. Paired with Carrick Roads, it is the third-largest natural harbour in the world and the deepest natural harbour in Western Europe.

It holds such a value that it is even guarded by its very own police department, Falmouth Docks Police. Not only does it hold economic value but it’s also famous for being the start/ finish point for record-breaking voyages such as Dame Ellen MacArthur and Sir Robin Knox-Johnston.

Plymouth Harbour

Plymouth Harbour, also known as Barbican and Sutton Harbour, holds significant historical importance for the city and serves as a treat to the eye because of its beauty.

It’s always been seen as an important sea harbour and is most famous for being the place where the pilgrims boarded Mayflower in 1620 to sail to America.

The harbour is now home to a lot of bars and cafes, galleries, and boutique shops and is a hub of culture for the residents of Plymouth.

Weymouth Harbour

Weymouth Harbour is located on the south coast of England in Dorset. The harbour is popular amongst local fishermen and motor yachts and like many other ports, it also has museums and cafes. It is also the centre of cultural events and tourist attraction sites.

Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour is the largest natural harbour in the UK. In fact, it’s the largest natural harbour in all of Europe and the second-largest natural harbour in the world.

Although it was established a long time ago and has a long history, Poole Harbour is still a busy port with cross-channel freight and passenger ferry services.

Apart from being one of the largest natural harbours in the world, it’s also home to remarkable sports and has a shopping centre and an industrial centre.

What Is The World’s Largest Natural Harbour?

Poole Harbour may be the largest natural harbour in Europe but it is only the second largest one in the world, the first being Sydney Harbour.

Measured at over 11 miles long (17.7km) which covers an area of 21 square miles (54 sq. km), this harbour contains several islands.

Sydney Harbour is famous not only for its sailing and water sports but also for the shoreline that surrounds it. It’s home to some of Australia’s most famous historical buildings, including the famous Sydney Opera House.

Sea Freight Shipping at Messiah Freight

At Messiah Freight, we offer a range of sea freight services for multiple routes across the world, including the UK to Pakistan and the UK to Dubai. Our team of experts provide a complete package, ensuring the safety of your goods in transit and delivery.

We have experience working with a number of different items, in a variety of shapes and sizes, and we always work to provide the very best service for our customers.

If you’re looking for shipping in another form we also offer land freight and air freight as well as a number of other services. To find out more about how we can help you with your shipping needs, contact one of our friendly team to receive a free quote.