Discover Hawthorn Dene: Durham’s Unspoilt Coastal Woodland

We are so lucky to live in a County that benefits from both beautiful coastline and woodland. Hawthorn Dene Nature Reserve is the second largest coastal Dene in County Durham and is relatively unspoilt. This weekend we enjoyed our first Autumn walk through the Dene. However if it wasn’t for the changing colours and fallen leaves you wouldn’t think it was autumn, it’s been so mild.

Being part of the Durham Wildlife Trust the Dene is a great place to explore with the whole family. From spring the woodland floor is covered with snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils, wild garlic followed by beautiful wild flowers in the summertime. We even enjoyed the Dene when the snow was covering the ground. At some point in every season we visit Hawthorn Dene and it’s lovely to see how the woodland changes throughout the year.

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Why not have the best of both worlds because the Dene itself stretches down to the sea opening out underneath a very scenic viaduct. A popular place to create beach art or collect seaglass. We only ever pass the odd cyclist or dog walker which makes it a perfect, peaceful walk.

We normally walk to Hawthorn Dene from Noses Point Seaham. From here you can follow part of the Durham Heritage Coastal Path which is another of our favourite local walks. Walking along the coastal path you have amazing views of the coastline towards Hartlepool and on a clear day you can see the Teeside wind farm.

Or you can access the Dene from Hawthorn Village itself, SR7 8SH

Palominos: The cream of the Dene

Conveniently situated at the entrance to the Dene (the Hawthorn Village entrance) is Palominos. The perfect place to stop for a hot drink. Treat yourself to one of their fabulous ice creams, cakes, quiches or pies they have on offer. We loved the autumn and Halloween decorations they have on display and Willow and Bobby enjoyed a treat from the staff. This quirky little horse box cafe is only open weekends from the months of March to the end of October so we were determined to fit in a visit before they close for the winter months. We enjoyed a Gingerbread latte and a slice of millionaire shortcake to end what was a lovely walk.