Long Rock SSSI, Swalecliffe - Image 1
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Long Rock Nature Reserve

4.5
·41 reviews·, United Kingdom

A peaceful nature reserve and beach known for its unique tidal 'street' and scientific significance, perfect for serene walks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide

Reveals unique walking paths

CrowdLow
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Long Rock SSSI, Swalecliffe - Image 1

Long Rock Nature Reserve

Best Time

Low tide

Reveals unique walking paths

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A peaceful nature reserve and beach known for its unique tidal 'street' and scientific significance, perfect for serene walks.

4.5
(41 reviews)

"Lovely peaceful place...making it more nice so u can have different kind perspective about this place rather then pebble beach."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Tide Times First

Low tide is best for exploring the unique 'street' revealed in the sea. :world_map:

Leash Your Dog

Keep dogs on leads to protect wildlife, despite many visitors not doing so. :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tidal 'Street'

The Tidal 'Street'

Walk along the unique parting in the sea revealed at low tide, offering a different perspective of the reserve and beach.

Coastal Walk

Coastal Walk

Enjoy a serene walk between Tankerton and Herne Bay, taking in the ever-changing landscape.

Scientific Significance

Scientific Significance

Explore a place of scientific importance, with a landscape shaped by tides and a history as a Victorian dumping ground.

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Planning Your Visit

Tide Times are Key

Check the tide charts before you go! Low tide reveals a unique 'street' you can walk along, offering a different perspective of the reserve and beach. High tide can limit access to certain areas.

Respect Wildlife & Rules

While signs warn of fines for dogs off-leash, many visitors report seeing unleashed pets, which can disturb the limited birdlife. Adhering to rules helps preserve this scientifically significant site.

Best Times

When
Low tide
Why
Reveals unique walking paths
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds for peaceful walks
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Looking up a long cascading waterfall on a beautiful summer day. The warm light danced on the flowing water as it tumbled over layers of rock, filling the forest with its steady, peaceful rhythm. One of those perfect moments where nature does all the talking 😍
matt_swack
2.4K likes • 29.8K views

Check Tide Times First

Low tide is best for exploring the unique 'street' revealed in the sea. :world_map:

Leash Your Dog

Keep dogs on leads to protect wildlife, despite many visitors not doing so. :dog:

EXPLANATION ⤵️ Long Point is a beautiful destination if you want to spend some quality time at the beach or in the nature reserve. The actual park itself was quite a change from some of my favourite types of parks, but we still enjoyed it, just in a different way. Here's an overview of the park: ⛱️ Excellent 1.5km of sandy beach area 🚫 No trails inside the park 🌳 Lots of non-electric sites with ...
theaveragetourist
343 likes • 18.6K views
You need to add Evans Crowns Nature Reserve to your weekend adventure list! Only about 3kms long, but an entertaining hike with lots of rock scrambling. The granite boulders and views left me in complete awe! Who’s keen to play on natures ultimate obstacle course? #LoraMyLife #evanscrown #evanscrownnaturereserve #visitsevenvalleys #feelnsw
lora_mylife
235 likes • 8.7K views

Peaceful Dog Walking

Great spot for dog walks with a beachside view. :dog:

Observe Wildlife

Look for varied wildlife, though bird numbers can be low due to off-leash dogs. :bird:

Up to the top of the rock yesterday, long walk back down via the caves and nature reserve. Archi keen to see it all and give the skywalk a structural test, much to the fright of other visitors! #therock #gobraltar #skywalk
yachtie_dad
11 likes • 169 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Tide Times First

Low tide is best for exploring the unique 'street' revealed in the sea. :world_map:

Leash Your Dog

Keep dogs on leads to protect wildlife, despite many visitors not doing so. :dog:

Peaceful Dog Walking

Great spot for dog walks with a beachside view. :dog:

Observe Wildlife

Look for varied wildlife, though bird numbers can be low due to off-leash dogs. :bird:

Scenic Coastal Path

Enjoy the beautiful coastal walk between Tankerton and Herne Bay. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(41 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Long Rock Nature Reserve a peaceful and serene spot, particularly enjoyable for dog walks and meditative moments by the beach. The ever-changing landscape due to tides is a highlight, offering unique perspectives. However, some note a lack of amenities like benches and express concern over off-leash dogs impacting wildlife.

"Lovely peaceful place. Not many birds, but three twitchers with binocular tripods. Lots of dogs off their leads, despite signs saying £1,000 fine for doing this! Maybe this is why there were few birds!"

BK

"Great place for meditate urself or dog walk. Just in front of beach making it more nice so u can have different kind perspective about this place rather then pebble beach. All I missed some benches or sheds to sit for elders which is good for bad weather too."

UK Photo Journey

"Lovely stretch of beach. It used to be a victorian dumping ground so I've been told. You see lots of wildlife here. The tides make the beach look different almost every time you visit. Peaceful and serene"

Hayley Wells

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Unique tidal 'street'
Dog-friendly beach

What People Dislike

Lack of benches
Off-leash dogs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The reserve is accessible via a coastal walk between Tankerton and Herne Bay. It's also described as being 'just in front of the beach', suggesting easy access from the promenade. Reddit

Information on specific parking facilities is limited, but its proximity to the beach and coastal paths suggests parking may be available in nearby Tankerton or Herne Bay. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, the coastal path is suitable for cycling, offering a scenic route to the reserve. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no mention of entry fees or tickets required for Long Rock Nature Reserve, suggesting it is freely accessible. Reddit

As an open nature reserve and beach area, it is likely accessible at all times. However, checking local tide times is crucial for the best experience. Reddit

The reserve is described as a beach and coastal walk. While peaceful, the terrain might be challenging for those with mobility issues, especially at low tide. The lack of benches was noted as a potential issue for elders. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, dog walking, meditation, and observing the unique landscape shaped by tides. It's also noted for its scientific significance. Reddit

While some visitors note limited birdlife, the reserve is a place of scientific significance and offers opportunities to see varied wildlife, especially with the changing tides. Reddit

The ever-changing beach landscape due to tides and the coastal views offer unique photographic opportunities. Reddit

One review mentioned a lack of benches, which could be an issue for elders or during bad weather. Toilet facilities are not explicitly mentioned but may be available in nearby Tankerton or Herne Bay. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While no dining options are mentioned within the reserve itself, its location near Tankerton and Herne Bay suggests that cafes and restaurants are likely available in those areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Dog Owners

Long Rock Nature Reserve is a popular spot for dog walking, offering a pleasant beachside environment. Reddit However, be aware that while signs prohibit dogs off-leash, many visitors disregard this rule, which can impact wildlife and other visitors' experiences. Reddit It's advisable to keep your dog on a lead to ensure a peaceful visit for everyone and to respect the reserve's natural inhabitants. Reddit

Nature Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate natural beauty and scientific significance, Long Rock Nature Reserve offers a unique coastal experience. Reddit The ever-changing landscape due to tidal patterns provides a dynamic environment to explore. While birdlife might be less abundant than in some other reserves, the scientific importance of the area and the opportunity to witness tidal transformations make it a worthwhile visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Tides

The most crucial aspect of planning a visit to Long Rock Nature Reserve revolves around the tide times. At low tide, a unique 'street' or parting in the sea is revealed, offering a distinct walking experience and a different perspective of the reserve and its pebble beach. Reddit This phenomenon transforms the landscape, making it a key feature for visitors. It's highly recommended to consult tide charts before your visit to maximize your exploration and avoid being cut off or missing out on this unique natural event. Reddit

Conversely, high tide can significantly alter accessibility, potentially limiting access to certain areas. The dynamic nature of the coastline means the beach looks different with each visit, adding to its appeal for those who appreciate natural change. Reddit

Wildlife and Conservation

Long Rock Nature Reserve is recognized for its scientific significance, hinting at a diverse ecosystem. However, visitor feedback suggests that birdlife can be limited. Reddit This is often attributed to dogs being off their leads, despite clear signage and warnings of substantial fines for violations. Reddit The presence of off-leash dogs can disturb nesting birds and other small wildlife, impacting the natural balance of the reserve. Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the reserve's ecological importance. By adhering to rules, such as keeping dogs on leashes, you contribute to preserving the habitat for the wildlife that does inhabit the area. This respect for nature ensures that Long Rock Nature Reserve remains a valuable natural space for both people and animals. Reddit

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