Looking for the best places to watch the sunrise or sunset in Durham? Whether you’re up with the birds or prefer a golden-hour wind-down, Durham delivers unforgettable views from coast to countryside.

With east-facing beaches for dramatic sunrises and rolling hills perfect for sunsets, this county is packed with photogenic, peaceful, and wildly underrated spots to start or end your day. Ideal for walkers, photographers, or anyone who enjoys a moment of calm.

Here’s your go-to guide to the top places in Durham to catch the sunrise and sunset, all accessible and ready for your next staycation or day trip.

Top Sunrise Spots in Durham

Mornings in Durham can be pure magic. If you're up early, here are the best places to enjoy a sunrise in nature.

1. Seaham – Classic Coastal Sunrise

Facing the North Sea, Seaham is home to some of the most beautiful sunrise spots in the North East. Watch as the sky lights up over the waves, painting the shore in soft blues, oranges and pinks.

Top tip: Go early and visit the Tommy sculpture for a peaceful, reflective start to your day.

Where? Slope Beach, Seaham Harbour Marina and Blast Beach and Nose's Point Nature Reserve.

2. Wharton Park – Sunrise Over Durham City

This elevated park just above the train station offers panoramic sunrise views across Durham’s rooftops. Watch the cathedral catch the first light of day while the city slowly wakes up.

Where? Wharton Park, Durham City.

3. Blackhall Rocks – Wild Coastal Beauty

A little further south along the Durham coast, Blackhall Rocks is rugged, raw, and ideal for those who like their sunrises with a touch of drama. Cliffs, sea stacks, and tide pools make it perfect for nature photography.

Where? Blackhall Rocks, Blackhall.

4. Derwent Waterside Park – Lakeside Calm at Dawn

Tucked beside Derwent Reservoir, this peaceful park is a lesser-known gem for sunrise. The still water mirrors the sky, and with surrounding woodland and birdsong, it’s a perfect start to the day.

Where? There are several car parks all around the shore at Derwent Waterside Park, Consett.

5. Hamsterley Forest (Eastern Trails)

Forest sunrises? Yes please. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the eastern side of Hamsterley Forest gives you gorgeous, dappled light filtering through the trees, especially in spring and autumn when the mist hangs low. The air’s crisp, the birds are up, and you’ll probably have the place to yourself. Bliss.

Where? Best place to park is Hamsterley Forest Visitor Centre.

6. Durham Cathedral & Observatory Hill

Want a picture-perfect sunrise with a historic backdrop? Head to Observatory Hill, just a short walk from Durham Cathedral. As the sun peaks up behind the hills, the cathedral is bathed in golden light.

Pro tip: Great for picnics and panoramic shots of the city skyline.

Where? Observatory Hill, Durham City.

Top Sunset Spots in Durham

When the day winds down, these locations offer beautiful views of the sky turning gold, orange, and sometimes bright pink, especially on clear evenings.

7. Hardwick Park – Sunset Among Lakes and Trees

With open skies, reflective lakes and historic follies, Hardwick Park is a brilliant spot to catch the sunset. It’s perfect for family strolls, solo wanders, or golden-hour photography sessions.

Where? Hardwick Country Park, Sedgfield.

8. Low Force Waterfall – Tranquil River Glow

Just a short walk from High Force, Low Force is quieter and equally beautiful. The surrounding meadows and trees catch the warm light, and the old suspension bridge adds character to your sunset shots.

Where? Low Force Waterfall, New Biggin, Barnard Castle. Best place to park is Bowlees Visitor Centre.

9. Hannah’s Meadow – Hidden Sunset Haven

This wildflower meadow is named after legendary tenant farmer Hannah Hauxwell, and it’s a quiet, serene place for sunset. With rolling hills and untouched fields, it’s perfect for those who prefer peaceful, off-grid places to watch the light fade.

Where? Hannah's Meadow can be found on the Pennine Way. Or if parking, its a short walk from Balderhead Reservoir Car Park.

10. High Force Waterfall – Big Drama at Dusk

As the light fades, High Force becomes even more atmospheric. Watch from the riverside walk as the sun sets behind the cliffs and the waterfall roars on. Wild and unforgettable.

This summer you can soak up every last ray of daylight with more time to explore. High Force Waterfall is open daily ‘til 8pm until 7 September 2025.

Where? High Force Waterfall and Hotel, Barnard Castle, Forest-in-Teesdale.

11. Easington Coastal Path – Sunset Turns the Sky Pink

This stretch of coast is often overlooked, but when conditions are right, the sunset here turns the entire sky soft pink and lavender. The cliffs and beach paths around Easington make for a romantic and atmospheric end to the day.

Where? Easington Colliery Local Nature Reserve.

12. Whistle Crag – Wide Teesdale Skies

For wide, open views and next-to-no crowds, head to Whistle Crag above Middleton-in-Teesdale in the Durham Dales. It’s a fantastic west-facing viewpoint, especially in late summer when the sky seems endless and the hills glow gold.

You'll also find Air also known as ‘The Feather’ at Whistle Crag. The artwork is one of eleven cast iron pieces created by sculptor Victoria Brailsford, which act as view-markers throughout Teesdale. 

Where? Whistle Cragg, parking point just off B6282, Middleton-in-Teesdale.

Tips for Skywatching in Durham

• Check the forecast – Some clouds are good. Full grey? Not so much.
• Get there early – The best colours often happen before sunrise or after sunset.
• Bring layers – Durham evenings can get chilly, even in summer.
• Download OS Maps or use Google Maps to scout east- or west-facing viewpoints.
• Stay for the afterglow – Pink and purple skies often appear 15–20 minutes after the sun disappears.
• Pick your season - Did you know the colours you see in a sunrise or sunset are based on how much light enters and travels through the atmosphere? In winter the air is more clear which makes for better conditions and more vibrant colours. 

Why Durham Is Perfect for Sunrises and Sunsets

From coastal cliffs to castle parks and moorland ridges, Durham is full of jaw-dropping sunrise and sunset spots. Whether you’re on a staycation, hiking the Dales, or simply after a peaceful moment in nature, this county serves up golden-hour magic.

Plus, it’s less crowded with many hidden gems, which means better views, less noise, and more space to breathe it all in.

If you capture a great shot, tag us on Instagram. We’d love to share your view of Durham’s golden hour. #lovedurham