Skip to content
A visitor lifts a child over her shoulders at the shoreline of the sunny, pebbly beach at Bucks Mill
Visitors on the beach at Bucks Mill in Bideford Bay, Devon | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Coast and beaches

We care for more than 780 miles of coastline. Plan a visit to see the best beaches and islands near you, and embark on a coastal adventure.

Things to do at the coast

A child's hands cup a collection of belemnites, bullet-shaped sandy-coloured fossils
Article
Article

Best places to find fossils 

Fossils can be found anywhere, but the beach is a great place to start. Discover some of the best coastal spots we look after where you may find a fossil or two.

Common seals and sandwich terns at Blakeney Point, Norfolk
Article
Article

Where to go seal watching 

Find the best places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to spot seals in the wild. Whether you're on a coastal walk or boat trip, there are plenty of places to see both grey and common seals as they come ashore to give birth.

Souter Lighthouse and The Leas, Tyne & Wear
Article
Article

Lighthouses to visit 

Fancy visiting a lighthouse? Find out where to go and get ready to discover some fascinating coastal buildings and their interesting histories.

A visitor walking over the rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede, with a rocky island visible on the other side of the bridge and the sea behind
Article
Article

Top islands to visit 

Whether you're looking for a rugged family adventure or a quiet day trip with stunning views, here are your top picks for islands to escape to.

Coast and beaches near you

    Visitors walking among daffodils at Dora's Field, Ambleside, Cumbria

    Where will you visit next?

    Discover lots of gardens, historic houses, days out at the coast and more.