Coastwise examines the coastline of the British Isles as a dynamic environment and offers you an understandable explanation of how the coastline functions as a single entity. It is supported by hundreds of stunning photos and illustrations. It begins by exploring how the forces of nature combine to create its physical features (and continue to do so). This is a multifaceted story that involves ancient geology and powerful ocean forces. It then turns to the living nature of the coast, covering the unique plants, animals and other organisms whose interdependence keeps the coast alive and healthy. These amazing creatures are described and displayed in full colour. The third part of the book looks at how humans have interacted with the coast, using it for defence, commerce and leisure. It explores these aspects from the earliest times to the present day. The final section shows, for each coastal region, where the features discussed in the book can be observed and enjoyed, giving you a practical way of exploring the elements described in the book. All aspects of the coast are covered, making it essential reading – or a wonderful gift – for all those who spend time on Britain's coast.

Praise for Coastwise

"These pages are a practical love letter to Britain's waterfront and no seaside holiday home should be without them."
— Tom Heap, Countryfile presenter

"This splendid, substantial hardback book, with many wonderful photographs, covers the coast of the British Isles in just the right detail."
— Little Ship Club

"His relaxed narrative, clear illustrations and beautiful photography will appeal to anyone with an interest in the world around them. Coastwise will educate and fascinate readers of all ages, as you're guided around Britain and some of its most beautiful locations."
— RNLI Lifeboat

"All aspects of the coast are covered, making it essential reading – or a wonderful gift – for all those who spend time on Britain's coast."
— Sailing Today

"Beautifully illustrated love letter to Britain's coast."
— Ocean Sailor

"It's jam-packed full of photographs and diagrams, and finds a perfect balance between sometimes complex concepts and easy reading. It's accessible, very readable and endlessly fascinating. It's basically an encyclopaedia of the coast."
— Kit Pascoe

About the Author

Peter Firstbrook studied oceanography and geography at university before spending 5 years in post-graduate research. He is now a filmmaker, writer, and RYA Yachtmaster with more than 50 years' sailing experience. He is the author of 6 books, including Lost on Everest which won the Trento Mountain Book Festival award.

About Fernhurst Books

Fernhurst Books was founded in 1979, initially publishing books related to dinghy racing. The list soon expanded to include cruising and other watersports. In 2006 the business was sold to John Wiley, but in 2013 a group of sailing enthusiasts (including the original founder) bought the list and name back, once again creating an independent nautical publisher owned and run by sailors. Fernhurst continues to publish books that instruct, inform and inspire those with a passion on, in or under the water. Their 140+ titles range from how-to guides to narrative to coffee-table books, covering sailing, surfing, canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, swimming, diving and fishing.

Maritime Photography & Art

Coastwise

Sailing the Seas

The Official Illustrated History of RAF Search and Rescue

Fishing Boats Around Scotland

Dream Cruising Destinations

Queen Anne

Piers of England and Wales

Coastal Britain: England and Wales

The Sea Painter's World

The Marine Art of Geoff Hunt

Rain Later, Good

Glasgow Harbour