Join our experienced SeaScapes & National Trust Walk Leader Volunteers Janet and Steven for a walk exploring Hawthorn Dene and the surrounding area. This is an opportunity to learn about the history, heritage and nature of the area.

This walk is around 3miles/5km, and should take around 2 hours to complete. It is advisable to wear walking shoes/boots. Please note that we have had an exceptional amount of rain and the paths will be muddy in places. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and wear or carry appropriate clothing. Please bring a drink and food.

“Hawthorn Dene is the second largest dene in the country with unspoilt semi-natural broadleaved woodland and species rich Magnesium limestone meadows. Hawthorn village developed in the Medieval period with farming providing the main economy. The village is therefore notably differnet in character to the other settlements along the coast, which were built in response to the booming coal industry in the late 19th/early 20th century.

“The dene is managed by Durham Wildlife Trust and the coastal edge is owned by the National Trust. The Dene is of special interest and in the need of protection because it is one of the few areas of relatively undisturbed woodland in East Durham.

“Hawthorn Village, Dene and Hive contain an abundance of natural and archaelogical features which all have a part to play in telling the story of the area.”

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