Is there a map of the convoy routes around the English Isles?

[Felix C]

I realize this was in the era where there could be quite a bit of leeway in terms of long/lat. but is there a fairly detailed map of convoy routes particularly those showing which convoys outbound/inbound would transit North Channel and which would use the St. George's Channel or those which would Irish Channel or be in the area southwest of the Scilly Islands?

Trying to pin down some aborted convoy attacks, escort counter-attacks for a given date and location and so if I know which routes somewhat correspond I can look up the ADM for that convoy.

As always thanks in advance.

[johnboy]

Merchant ships not travelling in convoy were instructed to sail on different routes for each journey. Maybe if you give the route you are looking for someone may have come across it.

[horatio2]

Try and get hold of "The Crisis of the Naval War" by Jellicoe. As well as notes on the convoy system, the book has two charts: "Chart A - Showing Approach Areas and Typical Routes"; and "Chart B - Showing Typical Approach Lines". Chart A does show some detail of the North Sea coastal route but both charts are more focussed on the North-West and South-West Approaches to the UK. Note the word "Typical".

[wightspirit]

You might find something under ADM137 records at TNA. For example, in ADM137/1474, page 50, there is a document which specifies, in some detail, the routes to be taken for 'The Down Channel Track.' It includes daylight, moonlight and darkness routes. Though this doesn't directly address the St George's Channel, as per your query, I should think it likely you'd find something similar for the area you're interested in somewhere in the ADM137 series. The document I refer to above doesn't include a chart but is nevertheless indicative that various routes instructions were issued.

Dave W

[rolt968]

Were there defensive minefield which had to be avoided? If so are maps available?

Roger M

[Knotty]

You could try these

ADM 116/1389 War Navigational Instructions for merchant vessels. Routes for Western Trade (1915-1918)

ADM 116/1390 War Navigational Instructions for merchant vessels. Routes for Western Trade (1918)

John

[Felix C]

Thanks everyone. I was looking for an easy as in available now type of item but should have realized there is no free pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

[Dai Bach y Sowldiwr]

Just noted the title of this thread.

I'm sure you didn't really mean "English Isles" did you?