About
Join us for a guided walk at Hawthorn Dene, a coastal denes in County Durham. These are gorges where the watercourse runs straight into the sea rather than being a tributary of a larger river. It is important for ancient woodland, including a population of naturally occurring Yews, and species-rich grassland.
There are some steep, narrow paths which can be slippery underfoot so please wear sturdy footwear and clothing suitable for the conditions.
Meet by the entrance to Hawthorn Dene Nature Reserve, SR7 8SH. There are spaces to park along the road adjacent to the track, please park considerately: what3words.
The nearest bus stop is on the B1432, Stockton Rd at the end of Hawthorn Lane. The number 22 bus stops here and it is approximately 15 minutes’ walk to the meeting point.
This event is being delivered as part of the Coastal Grasslands Reconnected Project, which aims to create and restore the wildflower rich magnesian limestone grasslands along the Durham Coastline. The project is a partnership between Durham County Council, the National Trust, and Durham Wildlife Trust. Coastal Grasslands Reconnected is funded by the Government’s Species Survival Fund.
The ramble will last approximately 2 hours and includes steep steps in places. Please wear suitable clothing including sturdy footwear.
About Hawthorn Dene
Hawthorn Dene has a fascinating history, sited on an outcrop of the Durham Magnesian Limestone Plateau which was formed 270 million years ago.
During Durham Wildlife Trust’s stewardship of the site, Hawthorn Dene was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the diversity of the woodland species. Many uncommon plant species are present in the woodland - including herb-Paris and bird’s-nest orchid. Hawthorn Dene is also classed as an ancient woodland, which means that it has existed continuously as a woodland since at least 1600AD.
Supporters of the Trust (members and volunteers) are invited to join the Northern Reserves Officer on Saturday 4th October for a guided walk of this wonderful reserve!
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