Coastal Defences Collection

Happisburgh 35088_014
Happisburgh, Norfolk, 2021

Picture showing how Britain prepared for an attempted invasion by German forces during the Second World War. Weapons developed by the Petroleum Warfare Department include this vertical flame throwing

Picture showing how Britain prepared a fiery reception for the Germans had they attempted an invasion. Oil Defences capable of setting the English Channel ablaze were evolved - billowing smoke

Blackpool battered by storms on 18 January 2007. The storms that day killed 13 people across the UK in hurricane force winds. January 2007

Teignmouth Pier and coastal defences at Teignmouth, South Devon, England. Summer

Coastal erosion, Norfolk
Coastal erosion. Eroded coastline at Happisburgh, Norfolk, UK. The Norfolk area of the English coastline is particularly prone to erosion by the sea

Coastal defences, Norfolk
Coastal defences. Waves breaking against a groyne at high tide at Happisburgh, Norfolk, UK. The Norfolk area of the English coastline is particularly prone to erosion by the sea

Blackpool being battered by storms on the 18th January 2007 that killed 13 people across the UK in the hurricane force
Ashley Cooper / SpecialistStock

Rebuilding a Norfolk beach after storm damage. Climate change is leading to increased stormy weather
Ashley Cooper / SpecialistStock

The Breach at Alkborough on the Humber Estuary in Eastern England. As sea levels rise around the world many areas of
Ashley Cooper / SpecialistStock

Blackpool being battered by storms on the 18th January 2007 that killed 13 people across the UK in the hurricane force
Ashley Cooper / SpecialistStock

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Coastal defences play a crucial role in safeguarding vulnerable areas from the relentless forces of nature. The breach at Alkborough on the Humber Estuary serves as a stark reminder of the increasing risks posed by rising sea levels worldwide. As low-lying lands face an escalating threat of coastal flooding, protecting these regions becomes not only essential but also financially burdensome. Blackpool's encounter with ferocious storms on January 18, 2007, left behind a trail of destruction and highlighted the urgent need for robust coastal defences. The relentless power of nature can wreak havoc on communities that lie in its path. Happisburgh stands as a testament to the vulnerability faced by many coastal towns and villages. With each passing day, these areas become more susceptible to erosion and flooding. Coastal defences act as shields against this encroaching menace. Teignmouth Pier and its accompanying coastal defences stand tall against the backdrop of South Devon's picturesque landscape during summer months. These structures serve not only to protect but also enhance our enjoyment of these beautiful seaside destinations. The Martello Tower in Eastbourne fell victim to Sir W Armstrongs Guns' devastating firepower from over 1000 yards away—an illustration of how advancements in weaponry have necessitated equally advanced fortifications along our coastlines. Portsmouth's fortifications, including the King's Bastion with its outer ravelin, showcase centuries-old efforts to defend strategic harbors from potential invaders. These historical remnants remind us that protecting our shores has always been paramount throughout history. Underneath Plymouth's Breakwater lies hidden resilience—a symbol of human engineering prowess standing firm against tumultuous waves since 1863. This oil painting captures both beauty and strength intertwined beneath ocean depths. Cherbourg sketches depict ongoing battles between man-made structures and natural elements—constant reminders that even fortified defenses must constantly adapt to changing tides and weather patterns.