If you are enjoying a staycation this year, here are 13 well-known and not so well-known beauty spots on your doorstep well worth paying a visit to.
Which are your favourites or have we missed any must-visit places out?
5. Horden beach
Horden beach is long and made up mainly of shingle and pebble, backed by grasslands and cliffs. This stunning picture at sundown was taken by Steven Darby. Photo: Steven Darby
6. Ward Jackson Park
Everything is starting to come into bloom at this time of year in Ward Jackson Park so why not pay a visit? Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid
7. Headland Lighthouse
The Heugh Battery Museum is currently closed to the public as of July 2020 due to the pandemic but the area is still steeped in local history including the spot where the first British soldier was killed during the First World War. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid
8. Waterfront linear park
This new park has been created around the edge of the former Jacksons Landing site near Hartlepool marina as part of the site's regeneration. New plants and seating have been installed. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid