A rusting shipwreck part buried in mud.
The Lady Alice Kenlis, River Deben, Woodbridge, Suffolk. View of vessel which was in service as a cargo ship then a dredger, 1867, designed by Hercules Linton (whose only other ship was the Cutty Sark) with an early iron hull © Historic England Archive
The Lady Alice Kenlis, River Deben, Woodbridge, Suffolk. View of vessel which was in service as a cargo ship then a dredger, 1867, designed by Hercules Linton (whose only other ship was the Cutty Sark) with an early iron hull © Historic England Archive

Coastal and Marine

Coastal and marine habitats contain a wealth of archaeological sites and remains. They are some of our most valued and threatened habitats facing challenges from climate change, pollution, exploitation and development. Here you can find information and links to further advice to inform nature recovery work in these environments.

Coastal and marine habitats and the historic environment

Humans have interacted with the wealth of resources found in coastal and marine habitats for millennia. These places record the history of environmental change and people's interactions with the sea.

The remains of past human activity – submerged landscapes, shipwreck sites and historic marine structures such as piers or harbour walls – often provide unique environments for marine wildlife and havens from exploitation. Salt marshes often have a long historiy of being used for coastal grazing, and are also important habitats for wildlife.

Integrated management of marine and coastal heritage sites can contribute to nature recovery and adaptation.

The following pages provide information on coastal and marine heritage.