The coastal town of Hartlepool lies north of the Tees estuary, with the North York Moors to the south and the majestic cathedral town of Durham, a short drive to the North West. There has been huge investment in regeneration projects and Hartlepool now offers an award-winning marina, with associated trendy restaurants and bars overlooking stunning yachts and sea going cruisers. In the heart of the town there is a multiplex cinema, a health and fitness centre with swimming pool and Middleton Grange shopping centre, which is the third largest in the region, with a traditional market hall. Other attractions include the HMS Tricomalee – Nelson’s last fighting frigate and the Heugh Battery Museum. Seaton Carew beach and its associated demanding golf course lies two miles down the coast and a short drive brings you to Saltholme RSPB Reserve, where seals and wading birds are regularly spotted. The more adventurous will be attracted to the impressive Teesside White Water Centre, whilst others may prefer a quiet walk along the Tees riverside walk. Beamish open air museum is within easy reach, near Durham city and well worth a day trip. Hartlepool provides a good base for those wishing to sample a novel corner of Britain, combining the beauty of the coastal waters with the rich industrial heritage of former times.
