Dawdon Dene

Valley in Durham

England

Dawdon Dene

Dalton Pumping Station Grade II listed pumping station from the 1870s, designed by Thomas Hawksley. The pumping station was taken out of use in the 1940s, and the upper portion of the central tower was removed in the 1960s. After several abortive attempts to re-purpose the building, as of August 2021 it is in the process of being renovated as a wedding venue. — Dalton Pumping Station Credit: David Robinson

Dawdon Dene is a picturesque valley located in Durham, England. Situated in the village of Dawdon, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility in a stunning natural setting. The dene is nestled between two hillsides, providing a sense of seclusion and shelter from the outside world.

The valley is renowned for its lush greenery, with dense woodland covering the slopes and a meandering stream flowing through its heart. The stream, known as the Dawdon Burn, adds to the charm of the dene, providing a soothing soundtrack as it cascades over rocks and meanders through the landscape.

Visitors to Dawdon Dene can explore numerous walking trails that wind through the valley, offering opportunities to admire the diverse flora and fauna that call the area home. The woodland boasts a rich variety of tree species, including oak, beech, and birch, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors throughout the seasons.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the array of animals that inhabit the dene. From squirrels and rabbits to a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and owls, there is always something to captivate nature lovers.

Dawdon Dene also holds historical significance, with remnants of old mine workings visible in some areas. These reminders of the region's coal mining past add an extra layer of interest and serve as a testament to the area's industrial heritage.

Overall, Dawdon Dene offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace in nature. Its picturesque surroundings, abundant wildlife, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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Dawdon Dene Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.827836/-1.3575857 or Grid Reference NZ4148. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Dalton Pumping Station

Grade II listed pumping station from the 1870s, designed by Thomas Hawksley. The pumping station was taken out of use in the 1940s, and the upper portion of the central tower was removed in the 1960s. After several abortive attempts to re-purpose the building, as of August 2021 it is in the process of being renovated as a wedding venue.

David Robinson

Allotments At Dawdon

Allotment gardens in front of colliery rows at Dawdon. Dawdon Colliery was one of the last to close in the Durham coalfield.

David Robinson

The Coalface

Micro pub on Church Street, Seaham

Graham Hogg

Church Street, Seaham

Dylan Chester

Byron carvings

These wood carvings commemorate Lord Byron and his wife Anne Isabella Milbanke, who were married at nearby Seaham Hall in 1815. The carvings are by Seaham artist, David Gross and stand outside the Byron Place shopping centre and were unveiled in January 2016. Beyond, the pedestrianised Church Street leads up to St John's Parish Church.

Gerald England

Byron carvings

Gerald England

Church Street

A wide pedestrianised street leading towards the Parish Church.

Gerald England

The Hat and Feathers

Originally three shops, numbers 57 to 59 Church Street were a pawnbrokers, wardrobe dealer, and chemist and dentist during the 1890s. Following the turn of the century they went on to become a milliners – hat makers – confectioners and drapers. Then for almost 60 years, from 1923 to 1981, two of the shops were home to Doggarts family run department store, which sold furniture, clothes and fine hats with feathers. In 2013 after a £1.2m conversion the premises became a Wetherspoon pub. Link

NZ4249 : Sign of The Hat and Feathers.

Gerald England

Sign of The Hat and Feathers

Sign for The Hat and Feathers NZ4249 : The Hat and Feathers.

Gerald England

Memory Lane and Oddfellows Arms

The Memory Lane bar opened in 2019 in premises previously occupied by Hutchinsons fruit and vegetable shop. At the same time the Oddfellows Arms next door was renovated. NZ4249 : Sign of The Oddfellows Arms.

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Sign of The Oddfellows Arms

Sign for The Oddfellows Arms NZ4249 : Memory Lane and Oddfellows Arms.

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Valentes Seaham

The cafe on Church Street was established in 1920 and was originally an ice cream parlour. Woolworths opened next door in 1936. It closed in 1989 and for a time was an Ethel Austin shop. More recently it has housed a charity shop.

Gerald England

Parish Church of St John the Evangelist, Seaham

The Grade II listed Link

church by Thomas Prosser dates from 1840. The north aisle was added in 1860 and the choir and vicar's vestries were added by R.J.Johnson in 1885-6. An historic timeline can be found on the church website: Link

Gerald England

Parish Church of St John the Evangelist, Seaham

The Grade II listed Link

Gerald England

The Inn Between

On the corner of South Railway Street and Adelaide Row. Originally a Newcastle Breweries pub and previously named the Masons Arms (1831-1861) and Northumberland Arms. It acquired the name The Inn Between in the 1980s. It was refurbished and opened up in 2020 after being closed and boarded up for ten years. NZ4249 : Sign of the Inn Between.

Gerald England

Sign of the Inn Between

Sign for the Inn Between NZ4249 : The Inn Between.

Gerald England

Former inclined railway to Seaham docks

Looking down the former incline that ran from Seaham colliery to Seaham docks. Now a foot / cycle route from the railway station to the town centre and the Durham coast.

David Robinson