Blackhall Rocks

Blackhall Rocks is a fantastic place to look in the rock pools when the tide is out, as sea life is returning in it’s droves – the ‘Get Carter’ days are long gone, although we do get the occasional visitor who can’t believe the transformation on this beautiful section of the coastline. At low tide, you can see anemones. The views are spectacular here, every day is varied – wind, sunshine and sea fret alter the mood and can make it feel like a completely different place.

In summer the cliff tops are awash with rich and unique wildflowers and grasses, on Magnesian Limestone grassland. Plants include cowslip, thrift, common rock-rose, birds-eye primrose and bloody cranesbill. Most of this type of grassland has been destroyed in Britain over the past century and two thirds of the remainder can be found in the north east. The meadows are at their best in June and July when they are in full bloom.

These vast areas of wildflower rich meadows and grasslands are ideal for bird watching. We have one of the highest densities of breeding skylarks in County Durham; other birds include merlins, short-eared owls, stonechats, meadow pip, kestrel and numerous sea birds.

The area is also visited by hares, voles, foxes, stoats, weasels and one of the largest populations of toads in County Durham.