The best walks and hikes around Seaham

Yes, Seaham offers a great selection of circular walks. A popular moderate option is the 10.4-mile Durham Heritage Coast – Blast Beach loop, which takes you along a significant portion of the coastline. For an easier, shorter loop, consider the 2.5-mile walk that includes the Tommy Statue and the harbour.

Most coastal and country paths around Seaham are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near cliff edges and livestock. The Durham Heritage Coast is a popular area for dog walkers. Remember to check for any specific restrictions on beaches, particularly during summer months.

For a very accessible and easy walk, the Tommy Statue to Seaham Harbour Pier loop is a great choice. It's a short 2.5-mile (4.0 km) route along the promenade, making it suitable for families and casual strolls. Many of the 45 easy-rated trails in the area follow relatively flat coastal paths.

There are several parking options. For walks starting in the town, you can find parking near the Seaham Harbour Marina and along the seafront. For routes exploring the southern part of the coast, the car park at Nose's Point is a well-regarded starting point for accessing the National Trust-managed Durham Coast.

Hiking is the best way to immerse yourself in the scenery of the Durham Heritage Coast. A great route to experience its dramatic cliffs and unique beaches is the loop from Dawdon to Blast Beach. This trail showcases the remarkable transformation of the coastline from its industrial past.

There are over 60 designated hiking routes to explore around Seaham. These range from short, easy coastal strolls to more challenging moderate hikes, with the majority being classified as easy or moderate, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning sea views, the unique post-industrial landscape of places like Blast Beach, and the variety of walks that combine coastal paths with woodland sections like those in Hawthorn Dene.

Yes, Seaham is famous for its sea glass, a legacy of the former glass-making industry. The best place to look is Seaham Beach, often called Glass Beach. For the best chances, search the shoreline after a high tide, which churns up new treasures.

Absolutely. For a change from the coastal scenery, you can explore Hawthorn Dene Nature Reserve, one of the largest denes on the Durham coast. The popular Seaham Seafront & Hawthorn Dene Woods loop combines a walk through these beautiful woodlands with views along the coast.

Key sights include the 'Tommy' statue on the seafront, the distinctive Seaham Harbour Marina, and the dramatic landscapes at Nose's Point. Further south, Blast Beach offers a unique and photogenic landscape shaped by its industrial history. Many routes, like the Durham Heritage Coast – Seaham Harbour Docks loop, are designed to take in several of these highlights.

While most trails are easy to moderate, you can find more challenging options. The longer coastal treks, which can be extended towards Ryhope or Hartlepool, involve more distance and elevation changes along the cliff paths. Some paths within the denes, like Hawthorn Dene, also feature steep sections and numerous steps.