Durham Beaches
Whether you’re planning a staycation or a day trip with the kids. Use our coastal holiday guide to discover beautiful Durham beaches.
Find your favourite Durham Beaches
Durham beaches, once known as the ‘Black Beaches’ has been transformed into an area of stunning natural beauty brimming with wildlife. Enjoy the beaches of Seaham, Peterlee and Hartlepool. From harbour towns of Hartlepool to the dramatic beaches of the Durham Heritage coast, this part of the coast is not to be missed. Walk the coastal path or explore the rich history of the area.
Durham Beach Days
Do you know the name of the beach you are looking for? From Seham Hall (Glass Beach) to Hartlepool. See our full list of beaches in Durham in alphabetical order.
Dramatic Magnesian Limestone Cliffs
The coastline is defined by towering cliffs of magnesian limestone, reaching up to 30 meters high in some areas. These cliffs feature occasional caves, stacks, and dramatic headlands, creating a rugged and varied landscape.
Coastal Villages and Heritage The Durham coast is dotted with picturesque coastal villages like Seaham, which has a lively harbor, historic church, and the iconic Seaham Hall Hotel. The coastline is also rich in industrial heritage, with remnants of the region’s coal mining past visible in some areas.
Recovering Marine Life
After improvements in water quality, the seas off the Durham coast are seeing a recovery of marine life. Kelp beds are expanding, and large populations of colorful anemones can be found. Seals and basking sharks are frequently spotted offshore in the summer months.
COASTAL EVENTS
Coastal events in Durham for your diary
Annual events taking place for 2024.
More about Durham beaches
Enjoy the beautiful Durham coast.
Explore other areas near Durham
Explore the miles of coastline with popular seaside destinations, coastal walks and water sports. Find more beaches in the northeast coast of England, covering the counties of East Riding, Northumberland, Yorkshire and Tyne and Wear. Stop off at a beach for the day or walk or cycle the coastal trails.
UK Beach Guide
Go to the Beach Guide
Go to another region and explore