Hawthorn Dene Nature Reserve

About

The second largest coastal Dene in the county, consisting of relatively unspoilt ancient woodland and species rich limestone hay meadows.  

Hawthorn Dene is a steep-sided ravine that cuts through the magnesian limestone of the Durham Coast.  The woodland that developed within the dene is characteristic of the area and includes lime loving species such as elm, ash and large numbers of mature native yew on the northern slopes.

Snowdrops, wild garlic and bluebells carpet the woodland floor from Spring and uncommon species such as bird’s-nest orchid and herb Paris can also be found. There are a wide range of woodland birds including jay, treecreeper and great spotted woodpecker and roe deer are regularly seen.