Explore a pristine National Nature Reserve featuring coastal dunes, wildlife habitats, and scenic walking trails in the Lake District.

Sandscale Haws National Nature Reserve is a protected coastal nature reserve located in the Lake District, managed by the National Trust. The reserve showcases diverse habitats including sand dunes, salt marshes, and grasslands that support a rich variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy extensive walking trails through the natural landscape, observing birds, coastal flora, and the dynamic dune ecosystem. The reserve is ideal for families seeking outdoor adventures in a natural setting, offering free access and dog-friendly pathways. It's perfect for all ages, from young children discovering nature to experienced naturalists, and provides educational opportunities to learn about coastal conservation and wildlife. The peaceful environment makes it an excellent destination for families wanting to combine leisure with nature exploration, whether for a leisurely stroll, wildlife watching, or photography in an unspoiled coastal environment.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

L

Leslie Royle

2 weeks ago

Nice walk on the beach small car park pay point there .

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Trev Croft

3 months ago

A great place to wander in the dunes, fantastic views from the top of one! The NT car park was very convenient and a great place for a picnic

I

ilona rigo

a year ago

A peaceful place, lovely beach and dunes - some very steep and grassy. End of December so no birds spotted, you could walk round for hours! Beach views and a great walk, bit misty to see the fells, NT members park for free, quite popular!

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Mr M

3 years ago

Nice place for a walk. Not very busy, little car park available too. Great walk, beautiful views, plenty of different animal species to spot. Fantastic poster about keeping dogs on the leads. It should be mandatory on all NT sites. Also good idea with spray painting dog poos to show people how they are leaving the site behind them.

R

Richard Broxton

4 years ago

Amazing place to visit and take your dog for a walk down the smash beaches. The tide can come in quite quickly so if our exploring the sands just be aware, but lovely to sit on the sand banks and just relax. Does cost for parking but around £1 per hour so not to bad. Wellies I would recommend unless really warm

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026