Reserve Description and Facilities
The Nature Reserve
Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve is an area of some 430 hectares comprising sandy and muddy seashores, sand-dunes, saltmarshes and freshwater habitats extending for a distance of about 3 miles along the Lincolnshire coast, from the southern end of Skegness to the entrance of the Wash. The Reserve is managed by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust under a lease from its owners the Lincolnshire County Council and East Lindsey District Council.
The primary function of the Reserve, which is recognised as an area of international scientific interest, is to conserve this unspoilt stretch of coastline and its important communities of plants and animals. Within the Reserve is the most extensive complex of sand-dunes and saltmarshes in Lincolnshire.
Management is designed to assist visitors to enjoy and appreciate the area. There is a network of paths, designed to take the visitor easily around the major habitats whilst keeping disturbance to a minimum. Many typical plants growing in characteristic habitats are labelled at points where they may easily be seen from the paths.
There is an observation platform at Mill Hill with extensive views of the surrounding landscape, and public hides overlook the Mere and Fenland Lagoon.
The Nature Reserve is recognised both nationally and internationally as an area of outstanding wildlife and geomorphological importance. It has been designated an SSSI, NNR, RAMSAR (site of international wetland importance), SPA (EC Birds directive).
Facilities at Gibraltar Point
The Visitor Centre
The Visitor Centre is the ideal place to start or end your visit to this internationally important nature reserve. Explore the habitats of the reserve using the interactive and audio-visual displays of the Wild Coast Exhibition, learn more about the environment in the Nature Discovery Room, relax and enjoy delicious food and drink in The Point Café, sit back and enjoy the views from The Look Out and browse for great gifts in the Gift Shop.
See the events pages for guided walks, children's activities, day and residential training courses.
Visitor Centre and Café Opening Times
- 1st April - 31st October
- Everyday from 10.00am to 4.00pm.
- 1st November - 31st March
- Weekdays from 11.00am to 3.00pm.
- Weekends from 11.00am to 4.00pm.
Please note
* During very bad weather, the visitor centre and café may close early.
* Admission to the visitor centre and the reserve is free.
* Car Parking charges apply, seasonal car park tickets are available.
* All groups must be booked in advance.
The Wash Study Centre
The Wash Study Centre offers accommodation for both educational and adult groups to stay at Gibraltar Point. With a range of activities on offer or simply as a place for your group to relax, we can cater for your needs. The centre has residential accommodation for up to 36 people in single, twin-bedded and larger rooms, as well as a laboratory, classroom and library facilities.
Car Park Charges
- Income from car parking helps us to manage the reserve for your enjoyment.
- Fees for cars and unbooked coaches are charged all year round.
- Seasonal car parking tickets are available.
- All groups must be booked in.
