The stunning sandy coastline of Lincolnshire

Skegness, Ava Lily

The Lincolnshire coast is one of England’s most distinctive stretches of coastline, combining wide sandy beaches, dunes, salt marshes, nature reserves, traditional seaside resorts and vast horizons.

Running along the eastern edge of Lincolnshire, the coast stretches for many miles beside the North Sea. It is very different from the dramatic cliffs of Cornwall or Dorset. Here, the landscape is generally low, flat and expansive. The sea often seems to meet an enormous sky, while beaches can extend for miles.

Lincolnshire’s coast is also a landscape shaped by water. Tides, rivers, drainage systems, marshes and sea defences have all influenced the region. Much of the land immediately inland from the coast is exceptionally flat, with some areas lying only slightly above sea level.

Keep dogs away from steep banks, cliffs and toxic plants/trees. Also keep dogs safe by the seaside (check beach bans before travel). Keep away from wild seals. 

Where Is the Lincolnshire Coast?

The Lincolnshire coast forms the eastern boundary of the county. It faces the North Sea and extends from the Humber estuary in the north towards the Wash in the south.

The coastline includes a mixture of beaches, dunes, marshes, estuaries and sea defences. Several major seaside settlements developed along the coast, including Skegness, Ingoldmells, Chapel St Leonards, Mablethorpe and Sutton-on-Sea.

Further north, the landscape becomes increasingly associated with the Humber and the industrial and port areas around Grimsby and Immingham. The southern part of the coast becomes more natural as it approaches the Wash.

Skegness

Skegness is the best-known resort on the Lincolnshire coast. The town became one of England’s great seaside destinations during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Its famous beach, promenade and pier attract large numbers of visitors, particularly during the summer. Skegness has all the familiar features of a traditional British seaside resort.

Ingoldmells

Just north of Skegness lies Ingoldmells. It is another major holiday destination and is particularly associated with caravan parks and family tourism. The area has developed considerably as a holiday resort.

Large accommodation parks provide a base for visitors exploring the Lincolnshire coast. Ingoldmells also offers easy access to the beach and nearby attractions. Its atmosphere is more heavily focused on modern holiday tourism than some of the quieter coastal villages further north.

Chapel St Leonards

Further north is Chapel St Leonards. The settlement has developed into a popular holiday destination while retaining a somewhat smaller-scale atmosphere than Skegness.

Its beach is broad and sandy. The village is surrounded by holiday accommodation, caravan parks and tourist businesses. During summer, the population increases considerably as visitors arrive for seaside holidays.

Anderby Creek

Anderby Creek offers a more peaceful side of the Lincolnshire coast. It is known for its beach and relatively undeveloped coastal landscape. The area provides an opportunity to experience the coast without the larger entertainment complexes found at Skegness and Ingoldmells.

The beach is backed by dunes and open countryside. It is particularly attractive to people looking for walking, wildlife and a quieter day beside the sea.

Mablethorpe

Mablethorpe is another traditional Lincolnshire seaside town. It has a long sandy beach and a strong family holiday atmosphere.

Mablethorpe is generally quieter than Skegness while still offering the attractions associated with a classic British resort. This makes it particularly popular with families and visitors looking for a less hectic seaside holiday.

Sutton-on-Sea

Sutton-on-Sea lies close to Mablethorpe but has a somewhat different atmosphere. It is known for its quieter seaside character and attractive promenade. The settlement has traditionally attracted visitors looking for a more relaxed holiday.

Its beach provides long stretches of sand and easy access to the sea. Sutton-on-Sea is also interesting for its historic seaside architecture.

The Lincolnshire Coast’s Sand Dunes

Sand dunes are an important feature of much of the Lincolnshire coast. They form where wind carries sand inland from the beach.

Vegetation gradually stabilises the sand, allowing dune systems to develop. These environments provide valuable habitats for specialised plants and insects.

Dunes also have an important physical function. They can provide natural protection against waves and storm surges. However, they are fragile ecosystems. Heavy foot traffic can damage vegetation and destabilise the sand.

Gibraltar Point

South of Skegness lies Gibraltar Point, one of the most important natural areas on the Lincolnshire coast. The reserve contains dunes, salt marsh, freshwater habitats and coastal grassland.

It provides habitat for numerous bird species. The landscape is particularly valuable for migrating birds.