Wondering where you can go for a walk along the coast in County Durham to make the most of summer (or what little we are having of it)?

From “mesmerising” and "breathtaking" views to “picturesque” wooded areas in the county, there are plenty of walking routes to explore.

Here are some of the best in the area including the Blackhall Rocks Circular, according to AllTrails.

Hawthorn Wood and Hive Circular (Seaham)

Fancy exploring this beach in County Durham?Fancy exploring this beach in County Durham? (Image: Melaine Winter/AllTrails)

Distance: 6.6km

Time to complete: 1 hour 41 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

The description on AllTrails reads: “Experience a wonderful walk starting from the small community of Hawthorn and passing through the stunning coastal dene.

“This trail leads visitors through a picturesque wooded area, offering breathtaking views of the forest and beach sections.

“The scenery is diverse and perfect for a range of outdoor activities.”

However, walkers should “keep in mind” certain sections may become muddy after rainfall, so appropriate footwear is advised.

The Hawthorn Wood and Hive Circular is also said to be “beautiful” at any time of year.

@nefamilyfun Blast Beach to Seaham Harbour Walk is a nice 5km route to try with loads of dog friendly cafes and free parking #seaham #lovedurham #northeastfamilyfun #northeasttokers #durhamcoast #northeastcoast ♬ Call Me - Liqwyd

View the full route here.

Seaham and Beacon Point via Durham Coastal Path

Distance: 6.6km

Time to complete: 1 hour 33 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

When strolling along this “beautiful” circular coastal trail close to the town of Seaham, expect to see “lovely views, scenic paths and historic sites”.

AllTrails adds: “The trail begins just south of the town at Nose’s Point, once the site of a colliery but now a beautiful nature reserve, and takes in a beautiful stretch of the Durham Heritage Coast.

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“Along the way there is a range of geological features including a couple of lovely beaches, flower-rich chalk grasslands, a chalk sea stack and a deep woodland gorge. Within the woodland gorge you will enjoy a fine view of an impressive viaduct and the remains of old lime kilns.

“There is plenty of wildlife to enjoy along the way including sea birds on the cliffs and deer, woodpeckers, and tree creepers within the woodland.”

View the full route here.

Blackhall Rocks Circular

Distance: 4.2km

Time to complete: 55 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Throughout this circular walk, adventurers can enjoy a “nice hike” at Blackhall Rocks on the Durham coast and be “mesmerised by the stunning views” – view the full route here.

@sarah_fitness_dogs_food Blackhall Rocks 🪨 in the North East. Postcode TS27 4AT Part of the Durham Heritage Coast. #blackhallrocks #countydurham #durhamheritage #beachwalks #beachwalk #dogwalk #dogwalking #sharpei #sharpeisoftiktok #foryou #fyp #fypシ ♬ On The Beach - Mauro Picotto's CRW Remix - York

AllTrails shares: “Blackhall Rocks is suitable for walkers and wheelchair users and has a circular easy access route which is gently undulating with one short steep section.

“This route has a 2m wide, sealed surface and has seats at regular intervals.

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“Paths and tracks throughout the rest of the site can be narrow and are made of a mixture of hardened surface with some large stones, pot holes and bare earth.

“After you have enjoyed the view from the top, step down to a beautiful deserted and clean beach, enjoy the wind, sunshine and the wildlife.

“The coast has one of the highest densities of breeding skylarks in Durham and the vast areas of wildflower rich meadows and grasslands are ideal for bird watching."