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7.5 miles
Explorer Maps 306 & 308 - Middlesbrough & Hartlepool
/ Durham & Sunderland
This is a very "straightforward" walk, which
doesn't really need any maps.
However, It is worth checking the latest version of the relevant Ordnance
Survey map which shows the route of the Enland Coast Path. This path
needs to be followed EXACTLY, checking finger posts indicating the way
ahead, as the route potentially crosses the local Golf course. We have
twice fallen out with the Golf players, who thought that we were too
close to the Golf course itself.
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.
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 new housing estate. 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.
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