And many of them has brought crowds of people wanting to get a close-up view.
Some were well-planned and organised visits by the Royal family while others were much more impromptu occasions.
Take a look at our selection and see how many you attended.
1. HMS Warrior on her way
Hartlepool said goodbye to HMS Warrior in 1987 and crowds turned out in force to see her go. Were you among them? | JPIMedia Resell Photo: hm
2. The ship that drew the crowds to Seaton
For more than two weeks in 1985, the 1,486 tonne coke carrying cargo ship the Anne was beached at Longscar Rocks. Look at the queues of traffic in Seaton Carew to see her. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: hm
3. Meeting Her Majesty in 1977
Queen Elizabeth II went on walkabout in Middleton Grange in 1977 and the crowds came out in force to meet her. | JPIMedia Photo: Hartlepool Mail
4. Down on the beach
The submerged forest at Seaton Carew always attracts a big crowd when it makes one of its rare appearances. | JPIMedia Resell Photo: hm