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.