About
Easington Colliery Nature Reserve and Beach in County Durham offer a delightful combination of natural beauty, coastal scenery, and tranquil walking paths, making it a perfect spot for a day out with your dog. Located on the rugged Durham Heritage Coast, this area provides a peaceful retreat for those who love nature and the sea. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Easington Nature Reserve and Beach with your dog.
Dog Access and Rules
The nature reserve and the beach are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the entire area with your furry friend. Dogs are welcome on the beach and in the nature reserve, but keeping them on a lead while exploring the reserve to protect the wildlife is essential. On the beach, you can let your dog off-lead to enjoy the sand and sea as long as they are well-behaved and controlled.
Things To See & Do
Easington Colliery Nature Reserve is located on the site of the former Easington Colliery along the Durham Heritage Coast. This area was once a bustling coal mining site but has since been transformed into a peaceful nature reserve offering a blend of natural landscapes, including grasslands, woodlands, and coastal cliffs.
Easington Colliery doubled as the fictitious Everington in the 2000 film Billy Elliot.
The beach is a mix of sand and shingle, framed by dramatic cliffs providing a stunning backdrop. The entire area has a tranquil, unspoiled atmosphere, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy quality time with your dog in nature.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Easington Nature Reserve and Beach with your dog:
- Scenic Walks: The nature reserve offers several walking trails that take you through different habitats, from woodlands to open grasslands to the beach. Your dog will love exploring the varied terrain, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the coast and countryside.
- Beach Play and Swimming: The beach at Easington is perfect for a game of fetch, a run along the shore, or even a splash in the sea if your dog loves the water. The beach is usually quiet, giving your dog plenty of space to roam and play.
- Seaglass Searching: Like many beaches on this coastal stretch, you can find sea glass washed up on the beach.
- Wildlife Spotting: The reserve is home to various wildlife, so look for birds, butterflies, and other creatures as you walk. Be mindful of your dog around wildlife, and keep it on a lead when necessary to avoid disturbing the animals.
- Picnicking: There are plenty of spots along the beach and in the nature reserve where you can sit and enjoy a picnic with your dog.
Access and Facilities
The Nature Reserve and Beach at Easington are easily accessible by car, with parking at a reserve car park. The village of Easington Colliery is well-connected by local roads, making it easy to reach from nearby towns such as Peterlee and Seaham.
Public transport options are also available, with buses running regularly to Easington from surrounding areas. Once you arrive in the village, it’s just a short walk to the nature reserve entrance and onto the beach.
You have a small car park and the Pay Note Cafe that occupies the former Easington Colliery Pay office.
