Peterlee

Post-war planners had big dreams when they built this County Durham new town in the 1960s. Named after a mining executive, Peterlee sits on the Durham Heritage Coast between Sunderland and Hartlepool, offering a proper dose of northern grit alongside surprising coastal beauty. The town itself feels refreshingly unpretentious - no fancy boutiques here, just honest local shops and the occasional Cineworld for a night out.

What really makes this area shine is its coastline. Blast Beach lives up to its dramatic name with wild waves crashing against limestone cliffs, while Hawthorn Hive offers a more sheltered spot for families. Shippersea Bay provides another coastal option, though you'll need to be prepared for that bracing North Sea breeze. Fox Holes Dene brings a touch of woodland walking to the mix when you've had enough salt air.

History buffs will appreciate the area's mining heritage. Easington Colliery War Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the communities that once thrived here, while the Yoden medieval settlement reveals much older roots. The contrast between ancient and modern feels particularly striking - you can explore archaeological remains at Blue House, then grab a coffee in town.

Getting here is straightforward enough via Horden station on the Durham Coast line, with regular services to Newcastle and Middlesbrough. The A19 provides decent road links too, though you'll want to allow extra time during rush hours.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense for exploring both the Heritage Coast and County Durham's broader attractions. You're well-positioned for day trips to Durham City or Beamish, while having easy access to some genuinely underrated coastal scenery right on your doorstep.