Attractions and Places To See around Hawthorn - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hawthorn include a diverse range of historical sites, natural coastal features, and significant monuments. This region offers opportunities to explore both man-made landmarks and scenic outdoor areas. Visitors can discover ancient priory ruins, coastal paths, and unique sculptures, providing a blend of cultural and natural experiences. The area is characterized by its historical depth and varied landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene green spaces.
Best attractions and places to see around Hawthorn
- The…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Tommy Statue (Eleven-O-One) – Seaham
Highlight • Monument
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Finchale Priory
Highlight • Religious Site
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Seaham Coastal Path
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Durham Heritage Coast
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Tunstall Hill Trig Point
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
This impressive modern sculpture, which the hiker encounters here, is a contemporary reminder of the suffering and horror of the First World War. When designing the memorial, the artist did not choose a glorious fighter and victor. Instead, he depicts a war-weary soldier, rifle in hand, who has slumped slightly and needs to rest.
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nice easy parking, walk accross the bridge over the river and you can either walk left or right giving you two options to walk up or down the river. quite pleasant but can get a bit boggy when it rains so wear the correct footwear. does get busy in the warmer months
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I always love this coastal walk. I tend to park a bit further away in the 1st car park on top of the hill, when 1st coming into Seaham. Then walk all the way to Blast Beach. If no one knew either, Blast Beach was used/inspired in the film Alien 3. Due to the director being a Northern lad.
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This coastal walk is well worth it. A beautiful walk with lots of contrast, costal paths, woodland trails and small secluded beaches. If you are very lucky you can see either dolphins or porpoises. Plenty of lovely places to eat and drink in Seaham. It’s a must to go and see the statue of Tommy the soldier.
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Tommy is a statue of a First World War soldier by artist Ray Lonsdale, displayed close to Seaham war memorial, on Terrace Green by the seafront in Seaham, County Durham, in North East England. It is officially named 1101 (or Eleven-O-One), referring to the first minute of peace as the armistice came into force at 11am on 11 November 1918, but is more popularly known as Tommy, referring to the archetype private soldier Tommy Atkins.
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Worth a visit just for the views but a bit difficult to access. Best access is from Leechmere Road. The track begins just before the houses and is signed for the Tunstall Hills park. One tip, once you've been there return the way you came. I tried to find a way down following some unmarked tracks and ended up having to cross a farmers field which is not ideal.
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The Durham Heritage Coast is a 5.5mile section of coast path heading south from Seaham. It passes through stunning cliff top scenery and wild beaches. Some owned and managed by the National Trust.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Hawthorn?
The region is rich in history. You can visit Finchale Priory, a Grade I-listed Benedictine priory founded in 1196, nestled on the wooded banks of the River Wear. Another significant historical landmark is the Tommy Statue (Eleven-O-One) – Seaham, a powerful modern sculpture commemorating a First World War soldier.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic viewpoints near Hawthorn?
Yes, the area boasts stunning natural beauty. The Durham Heritage Coast offers 5.5 miles of breathtaking cliff-top scenery and wild beaches, with sections managed by the National Trust. You can also enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding area and coastline from Tunstall Hill Trig Point.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Hawthorn?
The region is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore coastal paths, woodland trails, and secluded beaches along the Seaham Coastal Path. For cycling, there are various routes, including gravel biking, mountain biking, and road cycling. Check out the guides for Gravel biking around Hawthorn, MTB Trails around Hawthorn, and Road Cycling Routes around Hawthorn.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Hawthorn area?
The Tommy Statue (Eleven-O-One) – Seaham is easily accessible and located on a green with nearby coffee shops and ice-cream parlours, making it a pleasant stop for families. The Seaham Coastal Path also offers beautiful walks suitable for families, with opportunities to spot wildlife like dolphins or porpoises.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Hawthorn?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning coastal scenery, the historical depth of sites like Finchale Priory, and the powerful presence of the Tommy Statue. The diverse trails, from cliff-top walks to woodland paths, are also highly appreciated for their variety and views.
Can I find walking trails with good views near Hawthorn?
Absolutely. The Seaham Coastal Path is renowned for its beautiful walks offering lots of contrast, including coastal paths, woodland trails, and secluded beaches. The Durham Heritage Coast also provides excellent views along its 5.5-mile path.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility considerations?
The Tommy Statue (Eleven-O-One) – Seaham is listed as wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable option for visitors with mobility considerations. It's located on a green area, providing ease of access.
Where can I find information about cycling routes in the Hawthorn area?
Komoot offers dedicated guides for various cycling activities around Hawthorn. You can explore routes for Gravel biking, MTB Trails, and Road Cycling, each detailing different routes and their difficulty levels.
What is the significance of the Tommy Statue in Seaham?
The Tommy Statue (Eleven-O-One) – Seaham, officially named 1101, is a powerful sculpture by artist Ray Lonsdale. It depicts a war-weary First World War soldier and serves as a contemporary reminder of the suffering and horror of the war, commemorating the first minute of peace on November 11, 1918.
Can I combine a visit to Finchale Priory with other activities?
Yes, Finchale Priory is situated on the banks of the River Wear, and visitors often enjoy a scenic route from the priory to Durham city along the riverside. It's a great spot for those who appreciate historical ruins and gentle walks.
Are there any unique natural formations or landmarks to see?
Beyond the stunning coastline, Tunstall Hill Trig Point is a notable landmark offering panoramic views. It's sometimes referred to as the 'Maidens Paps' due to its distinctive shape, providing a unique natural feature to observe.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on coastal walks?
When walking along the Seaham Coastal Path, if you're lucky, you might spot dolphins or porpoises in the waters. The diverse coastal environment supports various bird species and marine life.
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