One of the UK’s longest-established diving and watersports centres has marked a major milestone, with hundreds of visitors attending a three-day anniversary festival celebrating 50 years of Andark.
Held at Andark Lake in Lower Swanwick from 26–28 June, the free event welcomed divers, paddleboarders, swimmers, families and watersports enthusiasts for a weekend of activities designed to showcase everything the centre has become known for over the past five decades. The festival programme included try dives, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, family swimming sessions, expert talks, yoga, live music and interactive exhibits from leading industry brands.
Organisers say the event brought together customers, instructors, clubs and local residents, reflecting the community-focused approach that has helped Andark remain one of the UK’s best-known independent diving and watersports businesses.
Managing Director Miriam Goddard said the anniversary was about more than celebrating a business milestone.
“Celebrating 50 years of Andark was about so much more than marking a milestone – it was about bringing people together and celebrating the incredible community that has grown around us over the past five decades.”
Throughout the weekend, visitors had opportunities to try new activities, explore the latest diving and watersports equipment, and enjoy demonstrations in a relaxed festival atmosphere.
While many dive centres focus solely on diver training or equipment sales, Andark has continued to expand its offering by combining education, retail, watersports and community events at its purpose-built inland lake.
The success of events like this also highlights an encouraging trend for UK diving. Introducing newcomers through accessible experiences such as pool sessions, snorkelling and family activities remains one of the most effective ways of growing participation in the sport.
As the UK diving industry continues to look for ways to attract new divers, festivals that bring together clubs, retailers, manufacturers and the public provide an opportunity to showcase the breadth of activities available both above and below the water.
Fifty years after opening its doors, Andark continues to demonstrate that community engagement remains as important as equipment and training in inspiring the next generation of divers. Independent listings and social media posts confirmed the festival programme and successful completion of the event, while attendance figures were supplied by the organisers.
Comments
