(Image: Getty)
While the summer might be over, that does not mean you cannot enjoy spending time on the beach.
The North East has miles of wonderful coastline with hidden coves and quiet beaches to enjoy a relaxing walk on.
Hawthorn Hive beach is described as a “true hidden gem” along the Durham coast, making it ideal for a family hike.
What is Hawthorn Hive beach like?
To get to Hawthorn Hive beach, you can walk through Hawthorn Dene, an area of ancient woodland.
The nature reserve is looked after by the Durham Wildlife Trust and covers 48 hectares.
Throughout the reserve, you can spot different plants all year round, with snowdrops, wild garlic, and wood anemone carpeting the woodland floor.
If you love birdwatching, you will be able to see a wide range of woodland birds, from jays and treecreepers to great spotted woodpeckers.
If you are particularly lucky, you might even see some roe deer.
When you arrive at the beach, you will be able to enjoy its “natural beauty”.
The beach is covered in smooth stones and a few bits of sea glass, with the cliffs offering visitors a sense of privacy.
The beach is “untouched” with few visitors taking the time to explore the area thanks to its “tucked-away location”.
The area is ideal for a quiet day next to the sea or a picnic with your family.
After exploring the beach, you could carry on your walk and follow the coastal path towards Seaham or head south towards Beacon Hill.
On your way back from the beach, you might want to stop off at the Stapylton Steakhouse found in the heart of Hawthorn village.
Reviews on Tripadvisor described the restaurant as having a “great atmosphere” and serving “delicious” food.
You can enjoy the set menu, which offers two courses for £13 and three courses for £16, and you can choose from a few starters and mains including the soup of the day and tomato bruschetta to fish and chips and mince and dumplings.
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The main menu features a bit more variety with lots of cosy dishes on offer from the pie of the day and sausage and mash to a classic cheeseburger and BBQ pulled pork fries.
The steakhouse of course offers steaks that can be cooked to your liking and served with a flat cap mushroom, tomato, salad and fries.
Have you ever been to Hawthorn Hive beach and the surrounding nature reserve? Let us know in the comments.