The park takes its name from this place. Denemouth is where Castle Eden Dene meets the sea, and the woodland that starts behind the park runs inland for about three and a half miles, all the way to Peterlee.
A wood that has been here for a very long time
A dene is a steep, narrow valley, and this is the biggest and finest of the ones that cut through the Durham coast. It is the largest area of natural woodland in north east England and has been a National Nature Reserve since 1985. Ash and wych elm fill the valley, with old yew trees clinging to the steeper banks; the yews are said to have given the dene its name. In spring the ground is carpeted with wild garlic, and the reserve is home to hundreds of species of plants, birds and mammals, roe deer among them.
Walking the dene
There are about twelve miles of footpaths through the reserve, so you can do a short loop or spend the best part of a day in it. The main way in is from Oakerside Dene Lodge in Peterlee, where there is a car park and two waymarked trails to start you off, the Squirrel Walk and the Yew Tree Walk, each about two miles. Natural England, who look after the reserve, have also laid an easy access path from the car park.
From the park you can do it the other way round, walking up into the dene from the coast end. It is a lovely contrast: sea and sky one minute, the hush of the woods the next.
Good to know
The reserve is open from sunrise to sunset all year, and it is free. Some of the paths are steep and can be muddy after rain, so good boots are worth it. Dogs are welcome, and it is one of the best dog walks for miles, particularly on a hot day when the beach is busy or a wet one when the shelter of the trees is welcome.
Owning a home nearby
Few parks can say they have a National Nature Reserve on one side and a beach on the other. Denemouth Park is a family run, owners only park at Blackhall Rocks, with homes for sale on the Durham coast, every price shown up front. Come and see how much is on the doorstep.
How far is Castle Eden Dene from Denemouth Park?
The coast end of the dene is right beside the park. The main entrance at Oakerside Dene Lodge in Peterlee is about ten minutes by car.
Is Castle Eden Dene free to visit?
Yes. It is open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year, and there is no charge.
How long is Castle Eden Dene?
About three and a half miles, from Peterlee down to the sea at Denemouth, with around twelve miles of footpaths through it.
Can I take my dog to Castle Eden Dene?
Yes, dogs are welcome. Some paths are steep and muddy after rain, so it is worth wearing good boots.