Beaches: The ‘unspoilt’ coastal nature reserve just 2 hours from Nottinghamshire with lagoons and wildlife

We’re now over a quarter of the way through the year already, with the start of summer just a few weeks away.

The period between the start of May and early June is a great time to hop in the car and head away for a day trip before the busy summer holidays.

There are so many great places in Nottinghamshire where you can spend a sunny day, from Sherwood Forest to Newstead Abbey, but sometimes it’s nice to look a bit further afield.

Nottinghamshire might be a landlocked county, but the beautiful Lincolnshire coast is just a short drive away.

The town of Skegness and village of Ingoldmells are always popular for day trips from Nottinghamshire, particularly if you’re someone who enjoys amusements, ice cream and chips.

However, we think that one part of the Lincolnshire coast is often overlooked by visitors to the area.

Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve

Located a couple of miles south of Skegness, Gibraltar Point Nature reserve extends for three miles along the Lincolnshire coast.

Covering 1,100 acres of pristine coastline and recognised as an area of international importance, Gibraltar Point is known for its impressive views and biodiversity.

Featuring sand dunes, lagoons and freshwater marsh ponds, the unique landscape is ideal for those escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.

Gibraltar Point is home to a range of birdlife, including migrating birds during spring.

Managed by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, Gibraltar Point features a visitor centre, cafe shop and toilets for visitors to use.

Dogs on leads are welcome at the reserve, although no dogs are allowed on the beach between April 1 and September 1.