Two visitors walk along the coastal path at the White Cliffs of Dover, with the man carrying a young child on their back. They're wrapped up in winter coats and the ocean can be seen behind them in the background. — Visitors walking at the White Cliffs of Dover, Kent | © National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

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.

A child on a beach holds a large, spiral-shaped ammonite fossil

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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

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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.