Nearest Postcode: LN11 7PD

Address: Marsh Lane, Donna Nook, Louth LN11 7PD

OS Map: NGR TF 42167 99829

Donna Nook National Nature Reserve covers more than 10 km (6.25 miles) of coastline between Grainthorpe Haven in the north and Saltfleet in the south where it borders the Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe National Nature Reserve.

Main car park 'Stonebridge'

• Maintained by the Environment Agency
• Well-surfaced path to the viewing area
• Limited number of disabled bays with ramp access to the path
• Free
• No toilets
• No parking overnight
• Catering van (private) operates throughout the season selling hot drinks and food

Donna Nook National Nature Reserve covers more than 10 km (6.25 miles) of coastline between Grainthorpe Haven in the north and Saltfleet in the south where it borders the Saltfleetby-Theddlethorpe National Nature Reserve.

The Seal Viewing Area - open late October to December

For much of the year grey seals at the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trusts’ Donna Nook National Nature Reserve are at sea or hauled out on distant sandbanks. Every November and December, the seals give birth to their pups near the sand dunes: a wildlife spectacle which attracts visitors from across the UK. 

• The viewing area at the foot of the sand dunes reduces disturbance to the seals and ensures the safety of visitors. Visitors should be aware that the Ministry of Defence maintains part of the area as a bombing target range. The seal viewing area is accessible at all times, it is not affected by tides.
• Seals are large predators and are very powerful. They can move surprisingly quickly and, having teeth similar to a dog, can inflict a nasty bite – including the pups.
• Mothers with pups can be very protective and big bulls can be aggressive. A mother seal may abandon her pup if it smells of humans or dogs.

Links

LWT Donna Nook Site: http://www.lincstrust.org.uk/donna-nook
Donna Nook Management: https://www.rspb.org.uk/our-work/our-positions-and-casework/casework/cases/donna-nook-managed-realignment/
Download the EA info: https://www.iema.net/assets/nts/NEAS/Donna_Nook_NTS_Dec_2009.pdf

The information shown on this page is produced as a general site guide and was considered correct at the time of writing. Users are responsible for their own safety and follow the information at their own risk. Users should consider not only the onsite conditions but also weather, tides, time of day, obstacles and onsite signage. Always follow the birdwatchers' code.

We are always keen to keep the birding site pages as up to date as possible, please send new information, additional photographs and comments to info @ lincsbirdclub.co.uk - Thanks!
Information by: Andrew P. Chick

Date: Dec 2017