Darlington-by-the-Sea returns and crowds flood town centre

Darlington-by-the-Sea returns this week and crowds of locals have seized the opportunity to experience the best parts of the seaside, in Darlington town centre.

Tonnes of sand were delivered to the market square ahead of the event which started today (Monday, July 24) creating a clean, safe beach to build sandcastles, dig holes, and bury dad’s feet.

The beach will be open Monday to Friday, from 11am to 5pm, with deckchairs and beach toys available to complete the seaside atmosphere.

This week, there will be live entertainment from Tom Rolfe and Urban Kaos, as well as free face-painting and crafts to keep little ones amused.

The Northern Echo: Darlington-by-the-Sea 2023. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest Darlington-by-the-Sea 2023. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

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Many families were seen taking advantage of the cost-friendly alternative to a day out at Saltburn, Redcar, or Seaton Carew.

Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, said: “Darlington by the Sea is always a popular event and I am delighted to see it return.

“I know for some families a trip to the coast isn’t always easy and so it is great to be able to bring the beach to everyone in Darlington.”

The summer stage was also set up last week in preparation for a summer full of music, dance, and film.

The Northern Echo: Lots of children's activities have been arranged for this week. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest Lots of children's activities have been arranged for this week. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

The Northern Echo: Smiles all round! Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest Smiles all round! Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

The Northern Echo: The event is a cheaper alternative to a day out at the seaside for many families. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest The event is a cheaper alternative to a day out at the seaside for many families. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

The Northern Echo: Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

The Northern Echo: Today was a brilliant first day of Darlington-by-the-Sea. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest Today was a brilliant first day of Darlington-by-the-Sea. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

The Northern Echo: Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

The Northern Echo: Darlington has been transformed into a seaside town. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest Darlington has been transformed into a seaside town. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)