The Grey Panthers
7 December, - Hartlepool Headland & Crimdon Dene


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8.8 miles

Explorer Maps 306 & 308 - Middlesbrough & Hartlepool / Durham & Sunderland

This is a very "straightforward" walk, which doesn't really need any maps.
The walk is suitable for any time of the year, and combines some history (Hartlepool Headland) with superb sea views and a bracing walk along the beach.
Some caution is needed in the derelict ruins of the Steetley Magnesite facory, as well as keeoing an eye on the tide when walking along the beach.



Start from car park to the South of St. Hilda's Church (NZ52769 33701).
Cut through streets past a fish-and-chip shop to the Town Wall by Fish Sands.
Now turn left and walk along the promenade (take the steps down to the lower level). When you reach the breakwater, take the steps up to the upper level again. Continue past the War Memorial Gardens and the Battery on the Heugh.
Continue along the promenade until it ends, then take the footpath up above the beach (there is a pillar marked "Spion Lop" ahead of you).
The "official" footpath continues by turning left at the cemetery and then taking the road between the derelict Steetley Magnesite works and the railway. However, a perfectly usable path takes you close to the coast and through the dunes past the golf course. At one point you cross part of the golf course and some care is needed. Drop down to the beach and then continue to the bridge over the Crimdon Beck.
Cross the beck and head for the beach. Now head back along the beach to Hartlepool Headland, and return to your starting point by retracing your steps.