Hawthorn Dene: an easy 1500m ramble through the village

Parking is available in Hawthorn Village (off-street parking). This route is also accessible via public transport, from Sunderland take Arriva bus no. 24 or 31. From Durham, take Arriva bus no. 24. From Seaham, take Go North East bus no. 203. All the busses pass on the old Sunderland Road at the west end of Hawthorn Village. From there, follow the road into Hawthorn Village and follow it further along the village which leads you to the coastal footpath and Hawthorn Dene.

[1] Start the walk with Keepers Cottage to your right. Past the cottage, you will see a footpath sign on your right. Go down the grassy footpath. Cross a small stream and follow the path up the other side.

[2] When a field appears ahead, turn right along the track and follow this into Hawthorn Village.

[3] Turn right at the local pub, the Staypleton Arms, and follow the road downhill.

[4] Turn right at the junction at the end of the road, following the signpost leading to Hawthorn Dene / coastal footpath to get back to the starting point.

The Hawthorn Community Centre offers sporting activities, e.g Pilates, to people from Hawthorn but also people living close by! But being outdoors is probably the best thing to do in Hawthorn! Hawthorn Dene is the second largest coastal Dene in the county and offers a rich selection of species as well as unspoilt nature. Furthermore Hawthorn is connected to the coastal footpath. The footpath is 11 miles long and shows a beautiful landscape and impressive coastal scenery. Get active and walk! For brave ones: you can also swim in the North Sea!

A.  The Staypleton Arms