Coastal Reserves worth finding.
National Nature Reserves protect Britain’s finest coastal habitats, from dune systems and salt marsh to seabird cliffs and underwater reefs. Browse the opening collection by nation, then follow a field note into the detail.
Browse the collection
Every entry is a starting point. Confirm local conditions, access and opening details before travelling.
Showing 14 coastal reserves
Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs NNR
A wild landslip reserve on the Jurassic Coast
Read the field note England · SuffolkSuffolk Coast NNR
A composite reserve of reedbeds, heath and shingle
Read the field note Scotland · Scottish BordersSt Abb's Head NNR
Dramatic cliff-top reserve managed by the National Trust for Scotland
Read the field note England · NorfolkBlakeney NNR
Major grey seal colony on a shingle spit
Read the field note England · NorthumberlandFarne Islands NNR
Seabird colony and seal haul-out, National Trust-managed
Read the field note England · DorsetStudland NNR
Heathland and dune coastal reserve
Read the field note Wales · BridgendKenfig NNR
Dune system, largest freshwater lake in Wales
Read the field note Wales · AngleseyNewborough Warren NNR
Coastal dune system
Read the field note Northern Ireland · County DownMurlough NNR
Ireland's oldest nature reserve, coastal dune system
Read the field note Northern Ireland · County DownStrangford Lough
One of only 3 UK Marine Nature Reserves
Read the field note England · LincolnshireGibraltar Point NNR
Dune, salt marsh and intertidal reserve on the Wash
Read the field note England · East YorkshireSpurn Point NNR
A shifting shingle spit at the mouth of the Humber
Read the field note England · LincolnshireDonna Nook NNR
Major grey seal pupping colony on the Lincolnshire coast
Read the field note England · East YorkshireBempton Cliffs NNR
Seabird cliffs, RSPB-managed reserve
Read the field noteFour nations, one coast
| Nation | Entries in this collection | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| England | 9 | From the grey seal colony at Blakeney to the Jurassic Coast landslips at Axmouth-to-Lyme Regis. |
| Wales | 2 | Kenfig’s dune system and Newborough Warren protect some of Wales’ most important coastal habitats. |
| Scotland | 1 | St Abb’s Head offers dramatic cliff-top walking and one of the east coast’s finest seabird colonies. |
| Northern Ireland | 2 | Murlough, Ireland’s oldest nature reserve, and Strangford Lough, one of only three UK Marine Nature Reserves. |
Before you set out
Are National Nature Reserves free to visit?
Most NNRs are free to enter and open year-round, though some have car park charges. Check with the managing body for access details and any seasonal restrictions.
When is the best time to see grey seal pups?
Grey seal pups are born between October and December at colonies like Blakeney, Donna Nook, and the Farne Islands. Check local viewing guidelines to avoid disturbing the colony.
Can I bring a dog to a coastal nature reserve?
Dogs are welcome at many reserves but must be kept on leads, especially during ground-nesting bird season (March–August) and around seal colonies. Check the reserve’s specific guidelines.
Can I suggest a correction?
Yes. Corrections and updates are welcome through the contact page.
Is this a booking website?
No. The UK Coast is an editorial directory and does not sell tickets or guarantee access.
Explore the coast
Move from built heritage to wild habitat, then follow the stories between them.