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Daily Record
4 days ago
- Daily Record
UK holidaymakers warned of hefty £1,000 fine for collecting certain souvenirs
Experts advise against taking home a pebble, seashell, or even a handful of sand from a UK beach. With the summer holiday season fully underway, millions of Brits will be enjoying some well-earned rest, both in the UK and abroad. However, experts are keen to warn travellers of an innocent beach tradition which could land them in trouble. Scotland has been engulfed in hot temperatures and humid heat this week, meaning many families will be heading straight for the nearest beach to enjoy some sun, sea and sand, but did you know that taking some cute seashells and pebbles home from the beach could land you with a hefty fine up to £1000 What seems like an innocent keepsake, whether a handful of sand or a pretty seashell, could actually carry serious consequences. Visitors naturally instinctively scour and collect souvenirs from the shore, such as a pebble picked up along the coastline, a scoop of soft sand, or a pretty shell found by the water's edge. But taking these treasures home could violate environmental protection laws, and if caught, potentially lead to fines of up to £1,000, confiscation, and, in rare instances, prosecution. Under the Coast Protection Act 1949, it is illegal to remove natural materials from Britain's coastline. The legislation applies to shells, stones, driftwood, and other items commonly found on the shore. Ultimately, it exists to protect fragile habitats and prevent long-term erosion. Neil Atkinson, travel expert and owner of Luxury Group Stay, said: "The UK's coastline remains one of our most cherished national assets, drawing an increasing number of visitors opting for staycations close to a beach this summer. 'It's essential that holidaymakers understand how even small actions can have a significant impact. From many perspectives, taking shells or pebbles comes across as a harmless token to represent your trip, but these natural elements are vital for preserving our beaches and supporting local wildlife. "There's a surge in staycations, especially to seaside spots, so respecting regulations is hugely important to safeguard these stunning environments for years to come. The threat of fines reflects the need for responsible tourism and sustainable enjoyment of our coastlines." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. In a recent reminder, Cumberland Council has warned visitors and residents alike to leave pebbles, shells, and sand on beaches or face fines up to £1,000 in line with the Coast Protection Act 1949. This warning highlights increasing concerns over the impact of souvenir collecting on fragile coastal environments. These materials are a vital part of the ecosystem. Empty shells often become homes for marine creatures such as hermit crabs, while pebbles and driftwood contribute to the natural defence of the coastline against the sea. Removing them on a large scale, even unintentionally, can damage biodiversity and undermine coastal stability.
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Families could face a £1,000 fine for ‘innocent' beach ‘mistake' this summer
Council warns even a handful of sand could harm fragile coastal habitats forever FINE PRINT Families could face a £1,000 fine for 'innocent' beach 'mistake' this summer Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HOLIDAYMAKERS could face fines of up to £1,000 this summer for the seemingly innocent act of taking pebbles, shells or sand from beaches Visitors who take beach 'souvenirs' home with them risk breaking the law under the Coast Protection Act 1949. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 The law applies to the whole UK coastline and covers shells, stones, driftwood and other natural materials What may seem like a harmless keepsake, a smooth stone, a scoop of soft sand, or a shell from the shoreline, is actually protected by law. Removing these items can lead to fines, confiscation, and, in rare cases, prosecution. Why the rules exist? The law applies to the whole UK coastline and covers shells, stones, driftwood and other natural materials. It was introduced to protect delicate marine habitats and to stop the gradual erosion of our beaches. These natural defences play a vital role in protecting wildlife and shielding coastal areas from storm damage. Empty shells are often taken over by creatures such as hermit crabs, while pebbles help break the force of waves hitting the shore. Even small amounts taken by millions of visitors each year can add up to a significant loss. Experts warn that once these natural buffers are gone, they can take decades to return — if they return at all. With more Britons than ever opting for seaside staycations this summer, environmental pressure is growing. Research shows nearly 69 per cent are holidaying in the UK this year, rising to over three-quarters among 25-44-year-olds. Popular beach spots include Weymouth, Brighton, Sandbanks, and Durdle Door. Woman fined £1,600 after visiting 'hidden gem' pink beach during European holiday 'it's not JUST a shell' Neil Atkinson, travel expert and owner of Luxury Group Stay, said: 'The UK's coastline remains one of our most cherished national assets, drawing an increasing number of visitors opting for staycations close to a beach this summer. 'It's essential that holidaymakers understand how even small actions can have a significant impact. "From many perspectives, taking shells or pebbles comes across as a harmless token to represent your trip, but these natural elements are vital for preserving our beaches and supporting local wildlife. "There's a surge in staycations, especially to seaside spots, so respecting regulations is hugely important to safeguard these stunning environments for years to come. "The threat of fines reflects the need for responsible tourism and sustainable enjoyment of our coastlines." Authorities say they're not trying to spoil people's fun, but to ensure future generations can enjoy the same pristine beaches. They urge visitors to take only photographs and leave only footprints. Other strict beach laws around the world Spain Leaving the beach without covering up swimwear - fines up to £500 Smoking on the beach - fines up to £1,700 Swimming in the sea after midnight- fines up to £1,020 Being naked on non-nudist beaches - fines up to £560 France Smoking on beaches Italy Taking pebbles - fines up to £2,500 UK Walking dogs on certain beaches between May 1 and September 30 - fines of £1,000 Dropping rubbish - fines up to £2,500 Taking pebbles - fines up to £1,000 Camping on beaches - fines up to £1,000
Scottish Sun
23-06-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
The 13 UK seaside towns where feeding seagulls could land you with on-the-spot £100 fine
Scroll down to read the breakdown of the fines in each town ANGRY BIRDS The 13 UK seaside towns where feeding seagulls could land you with on-the-spot £100 fine IF you're planning a trip to the seaside this summer, be careful not to make this costly mistake. While feeding seagulls may seem like harmless fun, it can actually result in hefty fines. 2 Feeding seagulls in certain UK seaside towns can results in hefty fines (stock image) Credit: Getty As summer kicks into gear, a lot of Brits are planning staycationers at scenic beaches. Advertisement But be warned because this little known coastal rule could turn your fish and chip supper into a serious expense. In some seaside towns across the country, feeding seagulls is not just discouraged; it is punishable by law. Luxury Group Stay, one of the UK's leading providers of premium holiday accommodation, has urged travellers to be aware of this local by-law. So even if these cheeky birds are begging for a chip, resist the urge to feed them. Advertisement In Aldeburgh, Suffolk, visitors are greeted by signs warning that anyone caught feeding gulls could face prosecution. This is enforced under public health and anti-social behaviour by-laws. Introduced in 2009, this rule is a result of rising public complaints about nuisance behaviour from gulls — including swooping attacks, persistent begging, and damage to bins and property. And it's far from an isolated case; a series of restrictions has emerged across the UK and the Channel Islands. Advertisement Many councils have introduced Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) or similar measures to clamp down on gull feeding. Inside colourful flat in seaside town featured on Scotland's Home of the Year Measures have been introduced along the North Yorkshire coast, with towns like Whitby and Scarborough issuing fines of up to £100 for feeding seagulls along their harbours and seafronts. The fine, introduced under environmental protection legislation, is part of a broader effort to manage behaviour in high-footfall coastal towns. And while the maximum penalty is rarely issued, local councils use it as a strong deterrent. This effort is more common than most Brits realise. Advertisement Similar bans are now in place across the South West, including East Devon, where feeding seagulls is prohibited under PSPOs. Fine amounts for feeding seagulls in UK seaside towns Exmouth: £80 - £100 Budleigh Salterton: £80 - £100 Sidmouth: £80 - £100 Beer: £80 - £100 Seaton: £80 - £100 Lyme Regis: Up to £100 West Bay: Up to £100 Bridport: Up to £100 St Ives: Up to £100 Whitby: Up to £100 Scarborough: Up to £100 Eastbourne: Up to £100 Hastings: Up to £100 Fixed penalties of £80 can be issued on the spot, with the possibility of higher fines for repeat offences or failure to pay. In West Dorset, towns like Lyme Regis and Bridport have adopted comparable policies. St Ives in Cornwall banned gull feeding in 2018 following multiple incidents of birds injuring visitors while attempting to grab food. A rep for Luxury Group Stay said that the rise in local fines and by-laws "catching guests off guard" has seen a change in customer preferences. Advertisement "We're seeing growing demand for private stays where families can relax, dine outdoors, and enjoy themselves without worrying about unexpected restrictions," they explained. With rules varying from town to town and signage often easy to miss, travellers are advised to check local guidance carefully. Plus, seven major holiday hot spots where you can get fined for vaping. And a common beach activity could also see you fined over £2,500. A holiday destination that's popular with Brits has introduced a new ban. Advertisement And a full-list of banned activities at your favourite holiday destinations.
The Irish Sun
23-06-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
The 13 UK seaside towns where feeding seagulls could land you with on-the-spot £100 fine
IF you're planning a trip to the seaside this summer, be careful not to make this costly mistake. While feeding seagulls may seem like harmless fun, it can actually result in hefty fines. 2 Feeding seagulls in certain UK seaside towns can results in hefty fines (stock image) Credit: Getty As summer kicks into gear, a lot of Brits are planning staycationers at scenic beaches. But be warned because this little known coastal rule could turn your fish and chip supper into a serious expense. In some seaside towns across the country, feeding seagulls is not just discouraged; it is punishable by law. Read More On Seaside Towns So even if these cheeky birds are begging for a chip, resist the urge to feed them. In Aldeburgh, Suffolk, visitors are greeted by signs warning that anyone caught feeding gulls could face prosecution. This is enforced under public health and anti-social behaviour by-laws. Introduced in 2009, this rule is a result of rising public complaints about nuisance behaviour from gulls — including swooping attacks, persistent begging, and damage to bins and property. Most read in News Travel And it's far from an isolated case; a series of restrictions has emerged across the UK and the Channel Islands. Many councils have introduced Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) or similar measures to clamp down on gull feeding. Inside colourful flat in seaside town featured on Scotland's Home of the Year Measures have been introduced along the North Yorkshire coast, with towns like The fine, introduced under environmental protection legislation, is part of a broader effort to manage behaviour in high-footfall coastal towns. And while the maximum penalty is rarely issued, local councils use it as a strong deterrent. This effort is more common than most Brits realise. Similar bans are now in place across the South West, including East Devon, where feeding seagulls is prohibited under PSPOs. Fine amounts for feeding seagulls in UK seaside towns Exmouth: £80 - £100 Budleigh Salterton: £80 - £100 Sidmouth: £80 - £100 Beer: £80 - £100 Seaton: £80 - £100 Lyme Regis: Up to £100 West Bay: Up to £100 Bridport: Up to £100 St Ives: Up to £100 Whitby: Up to £100 Scarborough: Up to £100 Eastbourne: Up to £100 Hastings: Up to £100 Fixed penalties of £80 can be issued on the spot, with the possibility of higher fines for repeat offences or failure to pay. In West Dorset, towns like Lyme Regis and Bridport have adopted comparable policies. St Ives in Cornwall banned gull feeding in 2018 following multiple incidents of birds injuring visitors while attempting to grab food. A rep for Luxury Group Stay said that the rise in local fines and by-laws "catching guests off guard" has seen a change in customer preferences. "We're seeing growing demand for private stays where families can relax, dine outdoors, and enjoy themselves without worrying about unexpected restrictions," they explained. With rules varying from town to town and signage often easy to miss, travellers are advised to check local guidance carefully. Plus, seven major And a common A holiday destination that's popular with Brits has And a 2 Anyone planning a seaside trip this summer is advised to read up on local by-laws to avoid fines (stock image) Credit: EPA
The Sun
23-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
The 13 UK seaside towns where feeding seagulls could land you with on-the-spot £100 fine
IF you're planning a trip to the seaside this summer, be careful not to make this costly mistake. While feeding seagulls may seem like harmless fun, it can actually result in hefty fines. 2 As summer kicks into gear, a lot of Brits are planning staycationers at scenic beaches. But be warned because this little known coastal rule could turn your fish and chip supper into a serious expense. In some seaside towns across the country, feeding seagulls is not just discouraged; it is punishable by law. Luxury Group Stay, one of the UK's leading providers of premium holiday accommodation, has urged travellers to be aware of this local by-law. So even if these cheeky birds are begging for a chip, resist the urge to feed them. In Aldeburgh, Suffolk, visitors are greeted by signs warning that anyone caught feeding gulls could face prosecution. This is enforced under public health and anti-social behaviour by-laws. Introduced in 2009, this rule is a result of rising public complaints about nuisance behaviour from gulls — including swooping attacks, persistent begging, and damage to bins and property. And it's far from an isolated case; a series of restrictions has emerged across the UK and the Channel Islands. Many councils have introduced Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) or similar measures to clamp down on gull feeding. Measures have been introduced along the North Yorkshire coast, with towns like Whitby and Scarborough issuing fines of up to £100 for feeding seagulls along their harbours and seafronts. The fine, introduced under environmental protection legislation, is part of a broader effort to manage behaviour in high-footfall coastal towns. And while the maximum penalty is rarely issued, local councils use it as a strong deterrent. This effort is more common than most Brits realise. Similar bans are now in place across the South West, including East Devon, where feeding seagulls is prohibited under PSPOs. Fixed penalties of £80 can be issued on the spot, with the possibility of higher fines for repeat offences or failure to pay. In West Dorset, towns like Lyme Regis and Bridport have adopted comparable policies. St Ives in Cornwall banned gull feeding in 2018 following multiple incidents of birds injuring visitors while attempting to grab food. A rep for Luxury Group Stay said that the rise in local fines and by-laws "catching guests off guard" has seen a change in customer preferences. "We're seeing growing demand for private stays where families can relax, dine outdoors, and enjoy themselves without worrying about unexpected restrictions," they explained. With rules varying from town to town and signage often easy to miss, travellers are advised to check local guidance carefully. Plus, seven major holiday hot spots where you can get fined for vaping. And a common beach activity could also see you fined over £2,500. A holiday destination that's popular with Brits has introduced a new ban. And a full-list of banned activities at your favourite holiday destinations. 2
