Holywell Dene

Valley in Northumberland

England

Holywell Dene

Holywell Dene is a picturesque valley located in the county of Northumberland, England. Stretching over 5 miles, it is nestled between the towns of Seaton Delaval and Seghill, providing a natural haven for both locals and visitors alike.

The dene is characterized by its abundant woodlands, meandering river, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The river, known as Seaton Burn, flows through the valley, creating a soothing ambiance as it cascades over small waterfalls and through rocky outcrops.

The woodlands of Holywell Dene are a mix of ancient broadleaf trees, including oak, beech, and ash, providing a stunning display of colors during the autumn months. The forest floor is adorned with a variety of wildflowers and ferns, creating a vibrant and diverse ecosystem.

The dene is home to a rich array of wildlife, including red squirrels, badgers, and a wide range of bird species. Birdwatchers often flock to Holywell Dene to catch glimpses of kingfishers, herons, and woodpeckers along the riverbanks.

Holywell Dene offers a network of well-maintained walking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty at their own pace. The paths wind through the woodlands, offering breathtaking views of the valley and its surroundings.

Overall, Holywell Dene is a tranquil and enchanting place, where visitors can immerse themselves in the splendor of Northumberland's natural landscape. Its combination of stunning woodlands, meandering river, and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.

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Holywell Dene Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.064109/-1.4999084 or Grid Reference NZ3274. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Church of Our Lady, Seaton Delaval

Grade 1 listed Link

Brian Deegan

Gardens west of the house

Looking across some of the gardens at Seaton Delaval Hall.

DS Pugh

Gardens and west side of the hall

Some of the gardens at Seaton Delaval Hall.

DS Pugh

The Parterre

Looking across the parterre to the west of the hall.

DS Pugh

Parterre at Seaton Delaval

Looking across the Parterre towards the west wing.

DS Pugh

Church of Our Lady

The little Church near the hall at Seaton Delaval.

DS Pugh

Public Footpath adjacent to Brier Dene Farm

This narrow footpath squeezes between the boundary of Whitley Bay Golf Course on one side, and Brier Dene Farm on the other whilst heading ultimately to the Whitley Bay to Old Hartley road (A193). In the other direction, the footpath joins the course of the old Avenue Branch of the Blyth & Tyne Railway, now designated as a 'traffic-free cycle route'. It is the same footpath as is shown at Link although this photograph was taken a handful of paces further back and at a slightly later time in the spring.

Geoff Holland

Stile near Brier Dene Farm

This small stile is the same one as the one shown at Link although the photograph was taken from the opposite side. Also, the stile has in the intervening 3 years been somewhat improved.

Geoff Holland

Signage near Whitley Bay Golf Course

This sign, which has lost its footing, warns passing walkers not to venture onto the Golf Course which lies just beyond the trees where a bunker can be seen. The tangle of brambles would, I suspect, act as a greater deterrent than the somewhat down-at-heel sign.

Geoff Holland

Public Bridleway, Holywell Dene

The bridleway at this point crosses over the route of the old Avenue Branch of the Blyth & Tyne Railway via a fine stone bridge Link. The bridleway is part of the 'Reivers Off-Road Cycle Route', which links the North and Irish Seas.

Geoff Holland

Public Footpath, Holywell Dene

At this point the footpath climbs away from the banks of the Seaton Burn to join the route of the old Avenue Branch of the Blyth & Tyne Railway close to a fine stone bridge Link. This photograph was taken close to the spot where the photograph shown at Link was also taken although at different times of the year.

Geoff Holland

Step Stile & Gate near Crow Hall Farm and Holywell Dene

This is the same step stile & gate as is shown at Link although taken from the opposite side of the fence.

Geoff Holland

Squeeze Stile on Public Footpath, Holywell Dene

This is the same squeeze stile as is shown at Link although at a different time of year. This squeeze stile is designed to make it difficult (although not impossible) for cyclists to utilise this public footpath which drops steeply downhill to the Seaton Burn.

Geoff Holland

Secret Place

The bridge crosses over Seaton Burn in Holywell Dene. It's a magical place and in the Burn below Brown Trout swim in the clear, shallow waters

Christine Westerback