With spectacular nature reserves, miles of rugged coastal paths and cosy pubs and cafes, Durham’s coast is spectacular as the seasons change. Feast on dramatic autumn colours and star-gaze at its dark skies, indulge in a spa or shop till you drop, there’s nowhere better to escape to the coast.
From the lively harbour town of Seaham in the north to the wide, sandy strands of Crimdon beach in the south, the Durham Heritage Coast is an inspiring gem.
Known for its spectacular flora and fauna and dramatic geology, this Coast is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a wonderful getaway off-season.
The lively town of Seaham boasts one of the oldest churches in the country, the stunning North Beach, a charming Harbour Marina and buzzing seafront. For sheer indulgence, check into the sumptuous Seaham Hall and Serenity Spa where scandalous poet Lord Byron married.
While you’re here bag a bargain at Dalton Park Outlet Shopping Destination, the biggest outlet shopping centre in North East England, the area’s biggest retail centre.
To the south, Crimdon has long been popular with holidaymakers, originally attracting miners in the 1920s. It’s now a magnet for Little Terns, one of the UK’s rarest birds.
If you want to blow off the cobwebs, you’re spoilt for choice. This once coal-scarred coastline has been carefully restored, cliffs carpeted with wild flowers, it offers the choice of Limekiln Gill Local Reserve Walk, Blackhall Rocks & Cross Gill Nature Reserve and Nose's Point Nature Reserve, stunning paths all hugging the coast.
Soak up the autumn kaleidoscope of beautiful yellow, reds and orange colours as you explore Eden Dene National Nature Reserve, one of the UK’s last ancient wild woodlands. And don’t forget to cast your eyes down to the damp woodland floor as fabulous fungi begin to appear. The Durham Heritage Coast is a great place for birdwatching in the autumn, and all along the coast you’ll find great spots to witness the big autumn migration.
To see the big autumn bird migration, head to Low Barns Nature Reserve for an amazing seasonal spectacle. Keep your eyes peeled as many seals come to shore between October and November to breed. But as always, remember to keep your distance from these incredible wild creatures.
Come for the food, the wildlife, the seascapes and the friendly locals - treat yourself to a trip on the Durham Heritage Coast this year.
