Crimdon Dene Beach - Image 1

Crimdon Dene Beach

Blackhall Colliery, United Kingdom•4.6(195)•Beaches, Country Park, Nature Reserve

Explore sweeping sandy beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs and coastal denes along one of England's finest Heritage Coastlines, perfect for families of all ages.

Crimdon Dene Beach is part of the Durham Heritage Coast, a stunning 12-mile stretch of coastline stretching from Ryhope to Crimdon. This natural gem has transformed from its industrial past into one of England's finest coastlines, featuring magnificent sweeping views across the North Sea and unique yellow limestone cliffs rising up to 30 metres high, punctuated by occasional caves and sea stacks. Visitors can experience wonderfully diverse coastal landscapes including shallow bays, prominent headlands, and atmospheric coastal denes rich with wildflowers and wildlife. The exposed rocky shores at low tide reveal fascinating marine life including kelp, sea urchins and anemones, while the cliffs support rare northern brown argus butterflies and bird species such as skylarks, sanderling and purple sandpipers. Offshore visitors may even spot minke whales and harbour porpoises. The Heritage Coast Partnership has worked since the late 1990s to conserve and enhance this living landscape, making it an ideal destination for families seeking outdoor adventure, nature discovery and coastal exploration. With free entry, The Dunes Cafe on site, dog-friendly access and pushchair-friendly facilities, Crimdon Dene Beach welcomes visitors of all ages to discover the area's unique geological formations and rich coastal heritage.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 00:00 – 23:59
Tuesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Wednesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Thursday: 00:00 – 23:59
Friday: 00:00 – 23:59
Saturday: 00:00 – 23:59
Sunday: 00:00 – 23:59

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

The Dunes Cafe

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Google Reviews

4.6(195 reviews)
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a year ago

Sandy,😊 You have got everything here that makes a good beach. Sand(dry and wet),pebbles, big round stones, rocks, sea weeds, sea grass, rock pools, dunes, cliffs, caves ( Black Hole) and a cafe. Sometimes even the sun is present! The parking fee is £3 for the whole day.

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Mister B

Mister B

a year ago

Being October and 15° with little wind, we wanted an evening walk. This is great for a walk at any time by the beach. Plenty of parking available up top when we went with easy access to the walkways that take you to the beach. The steps are step and wooden. We took a picnic and sat near the dunes, listening to the waves. The sky was amazing, and there were great views up and down the beach we shared with only half a dozen others.

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Benjy james

Benjy james

3 years ago

Really lovely beach for all the family and the dogs too! Beautiful sights, wonderful weather and lots of places to walk too! The cafe there as well serve great food and coffee! Perfect place to take a break from the sun!

K
Karen westmorland

Karen westmorland

4 years ago

Great beach and very different depending which part you go to. Very sandy down near the golf club and rocky as you head back towards the stepped area and cliffs. Dog loves running around. The usual lazy people's rubbish and poo bags but plenty of space for everyone.

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Kay Nolan

Kay Nolan

7 years ago

This is a lovely beach but the lack of poo bins mean people dump the bags. The solution is a carrier bag at each entrance to The beach. If you go, please take your rubbish to the bins in the car park and keep this gorgeous beach gorgeous x updated.... back there and there is a bag at each entrance for rubbish and poo bags. Well done to whoever did this. Update..... bags working well, visitors collecting plastic and leaving at these points. Great community spirit. Litter pick by the road overflow next job to tackle. Still a lovely beach. If you go, take a carrier and fill it with the plastic the tide brings in. Do your bit.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Crimdon Dene Beach

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Crimdon Dene Beach

Is Crimdon Dene Beach free to visit?

Entry to Crimdon Dene Beach is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Crimdon Dene Beach suitable for?

Crimdon Dene Beach is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Crimdon Dene Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Crimdon Dene Beach.

Is there parking at Crimdon Dene Beach?

Yes — Crimdon Dene Beach has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Crimdon Dene Beach?

Yes, The Dunes Cafe is on site at Crimdon Dene Beach.

Is Crimdon Dene Beach pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Crimdon Dene Beach is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Crimdon Dene Beach?

Crimdon Dene Beach is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Crimdon Dene Beach by public transport?

Crimdon Dene Beach is well-served by public transport.

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