SCAPA FLOW Orkney

If you are a diver, it’s likely that Scapa Flow is already on your radar. This natural harbour was used by the Royal Navy to provide protection for its fleet during both world wars, and is now the last place in Europe where you can see a dreadnought battleship.

In 1919, the German fleet was at Scapa Flow under the terms of the armistice while negotiations were taking place regarding its fate when, fearing that the British might seize the ships, Admiral von Reuter took the decision to scuttle 51 of his ships.

Many were subsequently salvaged for scrap, but seven remain submerged and are now protected wrecks – including the flagship of the Battle of Jutland, SMS König, and König-class SMS Markgraf. For novice divers, the sheltered waters near the Churchill Barriers are an ideal starting point, and there is plenty to intrigue the more experienced diver, too. The new Scapa Flow Museum is due to open this summer.

The Kirkwall hotel (01856 872232; kirkwallhotel.com) has doubles from £95