17 July 2025
|
Blackpool Pier copyright Historic England Archive
Historic England would love to hear your stories and memories about noteworthy heritage coastline locations. Discover the new interactive map and memory-gathering project launched July 2025.
On Thursday 17 July Historic England launched an interactive map of historic coastal landmarks. Historic England is asking people to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project, adding to the story of coastal places that hold a special place in their hearts and minds.
Heritage Minister, Baroness Twycross, said: "Our seaside communities play a huge role in telling our national story. I encourage everyone to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project to preserve the history of our coastal towns and breathe new life into their future."
About Historic England's Seaside Stories interactive map
- The map celebrates nearly 300 years of seaside history, from luxury Victorian spa retreats to seaside days out for all.
- Locations include Victorian piers and pavilions, beach huts and bandstands, lidos and lighthouses.
How can you get involved and share your Seaside Stories?
Submit photographs, drawings, written information or audio recordings about coastal landmarks that hold personal significance to you.
Visit the website and share your memories here: https://historicengland.org.uk/SeasideStories
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive, Historic England, said: 'Our seaside places hold a special place in our national story, yet the full richness of their heritage cannot be captured without the first-hand accounts, images and memories of those who've experienced them. I encourage people to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project, so we can all help ensure these treasured coastal landmarks are celebrated.'
From the Big Dipper of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, to the Pleasure Pier at Southend-on Sea; from Penzance's Jubilee Pool to Northumberland's Bamburgh Castle, there are iconic seaside attractions all along England's coastline. Taking in the sweep of history, leaving tantalising clues to times past - from national defences, to pioneering pleasure rides and more, there's heaps of heritage to cherish.
Go online and share memories in this national collection of Seaside Stories at https://historicengland.org.uk/SeasideStories
