It has been the same for decades as these wonderful photos show.
They all come to us courtesy of the superb Hartlepool Museum Service and Hartlepool Library Service which has excellent archive scenes of everything from pubs to factories across town.
This set of retro photos shows fairground rides at Seaton Carew, the outdoor pool on the Headland and boat trips from Middleton.
Bygone days at Crimdon and the Seaton Express mini railway are also included. Why not take a look for yourself.
1. Memories of the Mad Mouse
The Mad Mouse was a well known ride at Seaton funfair and here it is in the mid-1950s. Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service. Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service
2. All aboard the Seaton Express
In 1947, the Seaton Express went up and down the area of beach close to the South Shelter. At that time there were also rides and shuggy boats on the beach. Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service. Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service
3. Crimdon in 1983
A 1983 view at Crimdon. Does it bring back happy memories? Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service. Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service
4. Block Sands and paddling pool
A 1954 summer view of the paddling pool and the North Steel Works across the bay. Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service. Photo: Hartlepool Museum Service