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Things to see and do at Sandilands

Sandilands in spring
Sandilands in spring | © National Trust

Whatever the season, Sandilands on the Lincolnshire coast offers a moment of calm and connection with nature. From crisp winter air to summer sunshine, feel the sea breeze, hear coastal birds, and watch the skies change with the seasons — a place to pause, breathe, and take it all in.

Wander at your own pace
Enjoy a gentle stroll through the ever-changing landscapes around Sandilands. From the fresh greens of spring to the golden hues of autumn, there’s beauty to be found in every season. Take in coastal views, wide skies, and peaceful stretches of countryside as you follow the rhythm of the natural world.

Walk with us
Step into nature with our weekly wellness walks, held every Monday at 10am. Each week offers a new route to explore, revealing the local wildlife, seasonal highlights and scenic surroundings that make Sandilands a special place to visit, time and again.

Discover more about our upcoming walks and plan your next adventure.

Sanderling on the shoreline at Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry
Spot sanderling on the shoreline. | © National Trust Images/Wilbert McIlmoyle

Migrating birds

The East Atlantic Flyway is a crucial route for migrating birds, and Sandilands plays an important role in their journey. Each autumn, the coastline comes alive with wildfowl and winter visitors, while "passage migrants" stop to rest and refuel before continuing their journey south to warmer regions across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Many of these birds are waders, and once the wetlands are ready, Sandilands will become an even more important stop. For now, keep an eye on the foreshore for species like snow buntings, spotted redshanks, and ruffs. You might even spot a ring ouzel flitting among the autumnal bushes or a redstart hopping along the sea wall.

If you’d like to get a closer look, borrow a pair of binoculars from the office at the northern tip of the reserve, and don’t forget to add your sightings to our sightings board. Every visit offers the chance to see something special.

 

Visit the beach

There are lots of opportunities to take a moment to pause on the seafront at Sandilands. Watch flocks of seabirds overhead, search the shoreline for seashells, and keep a lookout for seals in the waves.

Waves crashing on the beach and wind turbines on the horizon at Sandilands, Lincolnshire
Waves crashing on the beach and wind turbines on the horizon | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park

As part of the Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park, Sandilands is a place where nature thrives and people can feel truly connected to the coast. With its wide skies, peaceful paths, and rich birdlife, this stretch of coastline offers space to explore, reflect, and enjoy the outdoors in every season.

The park spans five miles from Sandilands to Chapel St Leonards, reaching inland to the villages of Hogsthorpe, Mumby, Anderby and Huttoft. Along the way, you’ll find unspoilt beaches, sand dunes, and nature reserves teeming with life - a haven for walkers, wildlife-watchers and anyone seeking a breath of fresh air.

Make Moments That Matter

Every visit to Sandilands is a chance to slow down and make lasting memories. Whether you’re wrapped up for a blustery beach walk or soaking up the colours of autumn, there’s beauty to be found in every step. Don’t forget to capture your favourite moments and share them with us — tag @NTSandilands or use #NTSandilands on social media. We’d love to see your adventures.

 

A child looks through yellow binoculars directly at the camera with a big smile on his face.

Looking for a day out that'll keep the whole family entertained?

Sandilands is a captivating haven where children fall in love with nature. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and teeming with diverse wildlife, it's the perfect place for young explorers to connect with the great outdoors.

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Discover the 780 miles of beautiful coastline in our care. Plan your next coastal adventure, whether you want to explore soft, sandy beaches or rugged, windswept cliffs.