Coastline

The coastline we love is under increasing threat. With over 780 miles of it under our care, we're making sure it's well protected

View looking over Stinking Cove, North Cornwall
Coastline at Giant's Causeway

Did you know...? 

The National Trust cares for over 780 miles of coastline in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Here are a few things you might not have known about our shores.

Did you know...?
National Trust coast and marine specialist Phil Dyke Play Video
Video

Shifting shores

Thanks to your generous donations, we’re now looking after more than 780 miles of the UK’s coastline. Our coast and marine specialist Phil Dyke explains how the changing climate is threatening our shifting shores, and how your continued support will help protect the natural coastal landscapes we love.

Donate to the coast
Conservation grazing on the Lizard

Looking after the Lizard 

With a mild climate and ancient, volcanic rocks underfoot, the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall provides a safe haven for many important plants and animals, including native heather. From cows to controlled burning, discover how rangers are protecting this unique area.

A man and two young girls splash in the water at Robin Hood's Bay, Yorkshire

Help keep the coast alive 

Building sandcastles and paddling in the sea - what if all we had left of the coast were memories? As seas rise and storms rage, our shifting shores are transformed. Each coastal mile costs £3,000 a year to maintain and we need your help to keep the coast alive for everyone.

Donate to the Coast appeal
See all our coast & countryside appeals

Fighting the plastic tide

National Trust volunteers and staff cleaning Bossington Beach, on the Holnicote Estate, Exmoor National Park, Somerset

Tackling plastic pollution at source 

Plastic pollution is one of the biggest problems facing the natural world at the moment. Lizzy Carlyle, Head of Environmental Practices, takes a look at cutting out single-use plastics and committing to a cleaner future.

Pink Bottles of washing detergent wash up on Poldhu

Five ways to cut plastic waste 

Kicking the plastic habit isn't always easy, but it's not too late to join the revolution. From pledging against packaging to creative gift-giving, try these five plastic-busting tips to help keep your favourite places pollution free.

Beach clean at Blakeney National Nature Reserve, Norfolk

Find a winter beach clean  

Crashing waves, the sand between your toes and a day spent with some of your favourite people being ocean heroes. Why not try a different day out with the family this winter and lend a hand at your local beach clean?

Marine litter on a beach

Phasing out single use plastics at our places 

The National Trust is committed to creating safe and healthy places for nature and wildlife to thrive. To help safeguard nature for the future, we're phasing out single use plastics at the places we care for. Find out our plan to go plastic free.

The storms battering the dunes

Living with change: Our shifting shores 

We're tackling the threats of a changing coastline to safeguard the coastline you love.

How we're dealing with shifting shores

Join

Enjoy free access to more than 500 places with National Trust membership

Become a member

Give

We're a charity and rely on your donations to help our conservation work

Ways to donate

Volunteer

Each year thousands of volunteers join us in caring for all the special places you love

Start volunteering