Outer Trial Bank

Outer Trial Bank is an artificial island located in The Wash estuary in East England with a circular layout and sandy composition. The structure rises slightly above water and sits in a shallow basin that experiences significant tidal changes throughout the day.

The island was built in 1974 by the British government as an experimental water storage project to test the feasibility of creating freshwater reserves in coastal areas. The construction provided valuable data about managing water resources in tidal environments.

The island now serves as a bird sanctuary where visitors can watch nesting seabirds during their breeding season and observe their daily behaviors. The site has become an important resting and feeding place for migrating species passing through the region.

Access to the island requires careful planning due to tidal changes and shallow water conditions in the surrounding basin. Visitors should check tide times and bring suitable clothing and equipment for variable weather common to coastal areas.

A freshwater lake occupies the center of the island, serving as the core of the original experimental water storage system that remains intact today. This internal water body creates an unusual double-water feature with the surrounding saltwater basin.