Sandilands Nature Reserve

Seeing avocet chicks hatch at Sandilands is a hugely exciting moment. Once extinct in the UK, avocets have made a remarkable return and are now a much-loved symbol of wetland conservation.

Just a few years ago, Sandilands was a golf course. Today, its restored wetlands are providing a place for these distinctive birds to breed, alongside a rich variety of other wildlife. Their arrival is an encouraging sign of what can happen when nature is given the space and conditions it needs to recover.

Help us protect the birds that call Sandilands home, please keep dogs on leads while visiting the reserve.

As Sandilands Nature Reserve continues to take shape, we're delighted to share that Dough & Barley will be bringing the new café to life, opening later this summer. Nestled within the welcome building, the café will offer a place to pause and reconnect with nature. Whether you're enjoying a walk through the dunes, meeting friends for coffee, or simply taking in the ever-changing coastal views, this new space will provide a warm welcome for all.

Preparations are now underway behind the scenes, and there will soon be opportunities to join the team. Anyone interested in learning more about recruitment is encouraged to contact Cheri from Dough & Barley at contact@doughandbarley.com.
 

The new café at Sandilands is beginning to open up to its surroundings, as windows and doors are carefully installed.

These additions do more than complete the structure, they frame the landscape beyond, inviting light in and creating a strong connection between inside and out. Thoughtfully designed, they will offer wide views across the reserve, allowing visitors to feel immersed in the changing coastal scene.

With each pane fitted and doorway set in place, the building moves closer to becoming a welcoming space where people can pause, reflect, and enjoy Sandilands from a new perspective.

Another milestone reached, as the roof and solar panels are now in place on the new café building at Sandilands.

Set against the coastal sky, the completed roofline brings the building closer to life, while the addition of solar panels marks an important step towards a more sustainable future. Harnessing renewable energy from the sun, they will help power the space in a way that’s kinder to the environment and in keeping with the landscape it sits within.

As the build continues, this new café is not only taking shape physically, but also reflecting a thoughtful approach to caring for nature, now and for years to come.

Even in the quiet of winter, progress continues at Sandilands. The timber framework of the new café and visitor space is steadily rising, its form now clearly visible against the coastal skyline. Frost on the ground and low winter light offer a striking contrast to the warmth of the natural materials, as each beam and joint brings the building closer to completion.

Designed to sit gently within the landscape, the structure is beginning to reflect the character of this evolving place. As work carries on through the colder months, this new space moves one step closer to becoming a place where people can pause, take in the view, and feel part of Sandilands’ changing story.

The latest episode of the National Trust’s Wild Tales podcast is out now, and it’s all about Sandilands.

In this episode, presenter Ajay Tegala visits to explore the site’s journey from former golf course to a thriving coastal wetland. Featuring voices from across the project, it shares the challenges and triumphs of restoring this special place, from the first signs of new habitats taking shape to hopes for species like lapwing and avocet returning to the coast.

Tune in and discover the story behind this changing landscape.

The shape of the new café is beginning to emerge, as the timber framework starts to take form on site.

Rising from the newly laid foundations, the structure offers an early glimpse of the space to come. It's been thoughtfully designed to sit within the landscape while opening up views across the coast. Each beam marks steady progress in creating a place that feels both welcoming and rooted in its surroundings.

Supported by £2 million of Towns Fund investment through Connected Coast, this next stage brings the vision for Sandilands a step closer to reality. We’ll continue to share updates as the build takes shape.

Visitors recently joined a special World Habitat Day walk at Sandilands, led by our Nature Conservation Adviser, Carl Hawke.

Exploring the reserve together, they discovered how space has been given back to nature, from newly created wetlands to evolving grasslands, and how these habitats are already supporting a rich variety of wildlife. It was a chance to see first-hand how this changing coastal landscape is being carefully restored, and to hear the stories behind its transformation.

If you missed this walk, there will be more opportunities to explore Sandilands in the months ahead. Our weekly Wellness Walks also take place every Monday at 10am, offering a gentle way to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of time outdoors.

The next phase of Sandilands’ transformation is now underway, bringing us closer to a welcoming space where visitors can pause, connect with nature, and enjoy the coast.

Groundworks for the new visitor café are complete, with concrete foundations now in place. In the coming weeks, the timber frame will begin to rise, shaping a space that will offer refreshments, shelter, and wide-reaching views across this evolving landscape.

This chapter builds on the success of phase one, where newly created wetlands are already supporting wildlife and welcoming visitors. As nature flourishes and the build progresses, Sandilands is becoming a place where people and wildlife can thrive, side by side.

August marked an important step in Sandilands’ journey, as the former clubhouse was carefully removed to make way for a new café and visitor centre, set to open in 2026.

Connected Coast Chair Chris Baron joined partners on site to mark the milestone. Supported by £2 million of Towns Fund investment, the new space will provide a warm and welcoming place for visitors to pause, connect with nature, and enjoy the Lincolnshire coast.

Pictured: Chris Baron, Phil Winter, Caroline Killeavy, Richard Salt and Darrell Crow, each playing a part in shaping Sandilands’ future.

Six little ringed plover chicks have been spotted, including this tiny one captured here. These delicate, ground-nesting birds are a testament to nature’s resilience. Even with the gentle hum of activity across the site, they’ve chosen to breed here and are beginning to thrive.

As these chicks take their first steps, they remain incredibly vulnerable. Keeping dogs on leads is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help protect them, giving these fragile new lives the best possible chance to grow. Thank you for helping us care for Sandilands and all the wildlife that calls it home.

A small but significant move is underway at Sandilands, as the site office is carefully relocated to its new home at the ranger base.

With the portacabin lifted and moved into place, space is now being cleared for the next phase of building works to begin. It’s a moment that marks the shift from preparation to progress, as plans on paper continue to take shape on the ground.

While temporary in nature, the site office has played an important role in supporting the transformation so far, and now, from its new base, it will continue to support the work ahead as Sandilands evolves.

A familiar building in the car park has been transformed, marking another step forward in Sandilands’ journey. The former ELDC toilet block has been carefully refurbished, sitting alongside the Changing Places facility to improve access and comfort for all visitors. On the opposite side, the space will soon begin its new role as a welcome and orientation point, a place to pause, find your bearings, and start your visit with confidence.

With natural materials and a simple, considered design, the building now reflects its coastal setting while supporting a more inclusive and welcoming experience for everyone arriving at Sandilands.

A sense of what’s to come at Sandilands is beginning to take shape. New Omega signs have arrived, ready to guide visitors into the next chapter of this evolving coastal landscape.

More than simple waymarkers, they reflect the care, ambition and partnership behind Sandilands’ transformation. From creating rich habitats to improving access, each step is helping bring people closer to nature, and nature closer to people.

A huge native scrub planting project is underway at Sandilands, helping to restore and enrich the landscape. With the help of over 100 dedicated volunteers lending a hand, we’re planting more than 6,500 native scrub plants, creating vital habitats for local wildlife.

Hawthorn, sea buckthorn, blackthorn, and wild rose are now taking root, forming dense thickets that will provide nectar in spring, berries in autumn, and perfect nesting spots for blackbirds, linnets, and whitethroats. Taller scrub will offer much-needed shelter for migrating birds such as yellow-browed warblers and redstarts as they journey along the coast.

We’ll also established a naturally diverse roadside hedge, weaving in wild privet and field maple. This living corridor will be a haven for wildlife throughout the seasons, offering food and refuge for countless species.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who is lending a hand in this incredible effort. Together, we’re shaping a wilder, more resilient landscape, one that will thrive for generations to come.

A new seating area at the top of the dune by Boy Grift will soon offer panoramic views over the North Sea and Lincolnshire Wolds. It will be the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and take in the ever-changing landscape.

Whether you’ll be watching seabirds, enjoying the sunrise, or simply soaking up the fresh coastal air, this beautiful spot will soon be available for everyone to enjoy.

We’re excited to see the new bird hide at Sandilands beginning to take shape. Thoughtfully positioned to offer panoramic views across the wetlands, it will provide a peaceful spot for visitors to enjoy birdwatching all year round.

This is just one of the many ways we’re enhancing Sandilands for both wildlife and people, creating opportunities to pause, observe, and connect with nature. Stay tuned for more updates as the landscape continues to evolve.

This month, we’re focusing on soft landscaping to enhance Sandilands’ natural beauty while supporting local wildlife.

We’re planting native scrub and wildflowers to create rich habitats that will thrive throughout the year. By carefully selecting species suited to the coastal environment, we’re encouraging biodiversity and ensuring the reserve remains a haven for wildlife.

From young saplings taking root to hardy shrubs providing shelter, every plant plays a role in shaping Sandilands’ future. This work will lay the foundation for seasons to bloom, offering something new to discover each time you visit.

We believe nature should be accessible to all, that’s why we’re creating a fully accessible circular route through the wetlands, complete with bird hides, boardwalks, and dipping platforms.

With gentle pathways, playful boardwalks, and nature-inspired play features, we’re making sure visitors of all ages and abilities will be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Sandilands throughout the seasons. We’re also working to improve access by addressing areas with steps, steep slopes, and uneven terrain, ensuring that everyone can explore with ease.

Over the past few weeks, local artist Rebecca Harrison has been painting a vibrant mural at Sandilands. This charming artwork follows a young boy and his wise badger guide through the changing seasons, celebrating Sandilands’ rich landscape and diverse birdlife, both migratory visitors and year-round residents.

This community project has flourished thanks to Rebecca’s artistry, the creativity of Year 2 pupils at Huttoft Primary School, and everyone who joined workshops at the Coastal Centre and Library in Mablethorpe. Your contributions have brought this mural to life, creating something truly special for all to enjoy.

Next time you visit Sandilands, take a moment to admire this beautiful celebration of nature and community.

Work is underway to improve the toilet block at Sandilands, making it more accessible and welcoming for all visitors.

To ensure minimal disruption, contractors have set up a temporary compound, scaffolding, and alternative toilet facilities, with access to the Changing Place facility maintained throughout the refurbishment. A small section of the car park is temporarily fenced off to accommodate the work, and we truly appreciate your patience as we make these essential improvements.

We’re dedicated to making Sandilands an inclusive space for everyone, and these upgrades will help ensure that all visitors can enjoy this special place in comfort.

There’s something wonderful taking shape at Sandilands. Local artist Rebecca Harrison is busy bringing the builders’ compound to life with her enchanting mural, A Year with Badger and a Boy.

This stunning artwork invites visitors on a journey through the changing seasons, featuring the rich variety of wildlife that will make Sandilands its home. From fluttering birds and bustling insects, Rebecca’s mural is a celebration of nature’s beauty and promise.

Why not pop by and watch Rebecca’s vision unfold? It’s the perfect chance to take in the fresh coastal air, feel inspired by the creativity on display, and perhaps even spot a creature or two that will one day call Sandilands home.

Exciting progress is underway at Sandilands as we start reshaping the southern end of the site. The team is carefully cutting, filling, and grading the land, laying the foundation for the wetland nature reserve being created.

As part of this work, we’re removing old footways to make way for new, more accessible routes. In their place, we’ll be installing hardstanding paths and boardwalks, ensuring that visitors can explore the evolving landscape with ease.

Every step forward brings us closer to realising the vision for Sandilands, a thriving, wildlife-rich sanctuary on the Lincolnshire coast.

Staff and volunteers came together for a special 'spade in the ground' event on Friday 6 September, to mark the start of this exciting project. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as the first symbolic step was taken towards creating a vibrant habitat for wildlife and migratory birds. 

This project involves transforming the former golf course into a flourishing nature reserve, which will include wetlands, reedbeds, and ponds. The transformation aims to support a wide range of species and create a stunning new landscape along the Lincolnshire coast.

After months of careful planning and preparation, the much-anticipated habitat creation project gets underway at Sandilands. This marks the start of an extraordinary project to transform the former golf course into a sanctuary for wildlife and migratory birds.

Over the next 12 months, the landscape will be reshaped to create stunning islands, thriving reedbeds, and tranquil ponds, all designed to welcome back a rich variety of wildlife to the Lincolnshire coast. This transformation is not only about restoring natural habitats, but also about ensuring a future where biodiversity can flourish.

National Trust photographer John Miller made his final visit to document Sandilands before the project begins. The photographs taken during his visit are important in providing a visual record of the current state of the landscape. 

These "before" images will serve as a reference point, allowing us to reflect on the significant changes and improvements that will unfold over time. Whether it's the vast open greens, the existing plant life, or the natural contours of the land, these photos preserve a moment in history, offering a snapshot of the landscape before it begins its new chapter.

Once the project is complete, these images will showcase how a former golf course was transformed into a thriving nature reserve, abundant with wildlife and restoring natural habitats along the Lincolnshire coast.

A new fully accessible toilet has been installed by National Trust at Sandilands in order to help improve accessibility for visitors. The Changing Places toilet has been added to the developing visitor facilities as part of the project to transform the former golf course, into a year-round nature reserve.

 

We've secured temporary netting around the eaves of buildings at Sandilands to discourage nests from being built this season while building work takes place. The work could damage or disturb nests and the nets will encourage swallows, swifts and house martins to instead build at other locations nearby. With the generous help of House Martin Conservation and Lindsey Marsh Drainage Board, we have installed six double artificial nests on the nearby pumping station building for the migrating birds' return to Sandilands this spring.

As part of National Dog Walking Month local dog trainer Debbie Crummey from Building Behaviours lead our first monthly dog walk at Sandilands. If you're looking for a fun and healthy activity for you and your furry friend, join Debbie on our monthly dog walk. Visit the Sandilands event webpage for more information.

Plans to create a wetland nature reserve and multi-purpose visitor hub on the Lincolnshire coastline have been approved, with work set to begin late summer 2024.  

The transformation of the landscape will bring Sandilands back to its natural roots with open water, islands, reedbeds and ponds complete with walkways and boardwalks.

Plans have been submitted following lengthy and detailed consultations with partner organisations including those within the Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park partnership and other experts. This helped determine important elements around nature conservation, sustainability and technical design.

We're working on a project that aims to support the local community's access to the outdoors so that everyone can enjoy the essential benefits that time in green space and nature brings.

We welcomed over 50 people on our first walk on Monday 2 January. We want everyone to feel welcome in the outdoors and experience the mental and physical benefits of spending time in nature. Join us at 10 am, every Monday, from the northern tip of the reserve to take part (What3Words///softest.navigate.prospers).

We've officially opened a temporary outdoor café and staff office onsite. The café, located at the northern tip of the nature reserve, will serve a delicious range of take-away hot and cold drinks and snacks year-round.

The outdoor café will be an inviting stop for visitors before they go on to explore the wider reserve, which is already looking much wilder.

The local community were invited to vote for their favourite name on Sandilands’ social media and through a voting box at this year’s Sutton-on-sea Furlong Festival. During the opening, the name of the café was revealed.

National Trust has acquired 2km of Lincolnshire coastal land to help create a new 30 hectare, (74 acre), coastal nature reserve.  

Working in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, and East Lindsey District Council the reserve will form part of the Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park to help protect wildlife. 

It is the first coastal acquisition the conservation charity has made in Lincolnshire.