The bridge crossing the railway lines
I was a little conflicted over which walk to share with you today. Logically, it should be the one which culminates with Penshaw Monument, which intrigued many of you last week. But I’m often not a logical creature, and I’m always susceptible to the pull of the sea.
Hartlepool has three golf courses. I’ve never especially felt the need to wallop a golf ball, though I did once demonstrate a mild talent for pitch and put. All 3 courses have sea views, but by far the most scenic is very close to the sea. I would never be able to concentrate on the ball, so it’s a good job I’m a walker. Our start point is on the Hart to Haswell walkway, just north of Hartlepool Headland. Are you ready? We’ll need to step out briskly to keep warm!
You can see, and almost smell, the sea as you cross the bridge
Through the gate, the path leads down towards the sea
And then, a glimpse of beach
The gorse is beginning to flower- always an encouraging sign. Depending on how high the tide, you will probably find a ribbon of water, wriggling its way towards the sea.
The curve of an errant strip of water
With the sun so low, the water glimmers an electric blue
You have a choice at this point. You can stay down at beach level or ascend a gentle gradient to the golf course. There is a public right of way, but you venture there at your own risk.
In other words, keep your head down!
Just a little windswept?
Certainly not ‘sitting on a bench’ weather!
The advantage of being up on the tops is that you can remain in the sun for a little longer. Below, on the beach, the shadows rapidly lengthen and you need to increase your pace.
The shadows have swept the beach almost bare
As the sun retreats, out to sea
We’re not too far from the Headland now, and you may recognise a landmark ahead. The pier that once belonged to Steetley Magnesite, and betrays our industrial past, has featured in several of my posts. I find it a compelling sight.
Steetley pier in the distance
And in close up
It’s a little like a magnet to me, and I have to admit that I probably overdid it on this walk. You can about face and retrace your steps at any point, but having reached the pier I had determined to continue to the Headland. It’s the only place nearby where you can obtain refreshments.
I confess that I did not walk all the way back. There is a bus from the Headland which would take me home. I was rather lucky on this occasion, and met some friends, who’d been having scones with jam and cream in Mary Rowntree’s. They kindly offered me a lift. You just never know what might happen when you go out for a walk! I hope you enjoyed this one.
Time to thank all my lovely contributors again this week. They will take you to some ravishing places! Pop the kettle on and settle down for a good read. If you happen to have a walk you’d like to share, I’d be delighted. My Jo’s Monday walk page tells you how.
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No-one can tell a story like Tish Farrell! I know that you will enjoy…
To the Isle of Dwynwen, Welsh Saint of lovers
Another shot full of drama from Cardinal! Anyone been to Oslo?
Debbie takes us to Ljubljana. That girl gets to the loveliest places!
No need to venture beyond this garden, in South Africa! Let Sonel show you around :
Amy’s educating us about the Banyan tree next. Who knew?
And there’s a beautiful sequel to Paula’s walk from last week. Don’t miss it!
A Walk among the Menhirs- Sequel
You knew that Drake would be here again, didn’t you? Indoors, this time!
Use Feng shui and prayer flags to boost your energy? Like Elena :
For complete contrast, a luxurious stroll, with beetroot tart and salad- with Rosemay :
On the Heritage Trail, South Perth
And while we’re down that way, let’s finish the day deliciously, in Canberra with Jude.
What’s better than a walk? A walk and a steam train ride, of course! Many thanks to Lisa :
Absolutely fantastic walks! I really hope you can find time to read them. I’ll be back with you next Monday, but after that there’ll be a short break. Happy walking in the meantime!
restlessjo 
so pristine & lovely! enjoyed this walk immensely~
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Thanks, Cindy 🙂 It’s a bit ‘fresh’ on our coast but on a sunny day it can compete.
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That’S the kind of scenery I really love, even in winter.
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I’d miss it if it wasn’t on my doorstep, Tobias. Many thanks for your visit 🙂
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ancora magia nelle tue foto, ancora amore per il luogo dove felicemente abiti, tutto parla del tuo modo entusiastico e bello di affrontare la vita e colorarla con la passione della tua splendida anima, amica mia
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I love to walk by the sea, Ventis, and this was a truly magical day 🙂
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The path through the gate is so inviting. And knowing it leads to the sea…bliss! A fabulous walk indeed Jo. The bus back (after tea and scones) suits me fine 🙂
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I’ll manage to smuggle us a lift, Madhu 🙂 🙂 I’m living the high life in London at the moment and that beach seems far away.
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Lucky you! Have fun 🙂
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I would also prefer to walk than to play golf with these views! Great walk 🙂
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Many thanks 🙂 🙂
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The gate, the overlook, the blues and greens so brilliant all entrance me, Jo. I like the shimmering of the tall golden (tan) grass which you pointed out was windswept. The textures in the sand was fascinating my eyes, too. Lovely, thanks so much for this one, hope you were safe, dodging the golf balls, too.
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Thanks, Robin 🙂 Been on the move these past 24 hours so trying to catch up from my hotel room, in the wee small hours. Home seems far away but I’ll be back tomorrow evening. Appreciate your comments. 🙂
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Gorgeous pictures! x
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Thanks! It really is a gorgeous place 🙂
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lovely and quite a bit of a walk, Jo. the scenery is gorgeous, love the views and the sea! beautiful pictures as always 🙂
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It was the most beautiful day, but I did overdo it, just a bit 🙂 Never mind- there’s always rest days 🙂
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I love the name Hartlepool. Sounds like something Spike Milligan would make up. 😀
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He probably did! 🙂
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That brilliant blue sky makes me think it is warm over there, but I think it was deceptive. Lovely seaside walk Jo and I bet you were so pleased to find your friends having scones and tea to give you a lift home.
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So sorry for slow response, Pauline! Your last three comments have crept into my spam, but I’ve rescued you this morning 🙂 It’s been bitter cold here but that sky is always a boost for me.
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Thank you for coming over and leaving a comment Jo. WP seem to be messing around with things at the moment.
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Lovely views under a clear blue sky! You really are a big walker.
When we lived in Vanuatu, one of my favorite walks was around the edge of a small island in a salt-water lagoon that was connected to the shore by a very short bridge. The only trouble was, the whole island was part of a golf course. So I did need to watch for golf balls.
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I was lucky there weren’t too many golfers, Nicki, but then 3 courses for a smallish town is quite a lot, I think 🙂 It was the most glorious day!
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Beautiful!
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Thank you very much 🙂 🙂
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Oh Jo, just look at those blue skies! I do love those sea views..just sorry it took me so long to get over here. But I know it’s always worth the wait. Nice you bumped into some friends too 🙂 Lovely photos as always, the beach looks gorgeous 🙂
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It’s so nearby, Sherri! I’m often on some stretch of that beach 🙂 It was such a crisp, lovely day. It’s such a boost to the spirits, isn’t it. We’ve had some white stuff since then and the skies are back to heavy, but I’m busy planning London on Friday. Hope all’s good with you? Have you managed to get much writing done? Or should I not ask? Not meaning to turn thumbscrews! Hugs, Sherri 🙂
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Jo the views from the sea are superb. I am loving your creativity in angles and perspective. Looks like you are having fun not just with the walking but the capturing of it for the rest of us. 🙂
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It has to stay interesting, Sue, otherwise I might as well find something else to do with my life. Actually, I often think that I should anyway, but I enjoy it so. Thanks for your kind words, hon. Lap up that sun! 🙂
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Yes as long as we are having fun I say. 🙂 lapping up the sunshine as we speak!
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I love how all the photos have a palette of three colours: green, blue and brown. It really ties them together. The close-up of Steetley pier is stunning with that small puddle of reflection.
(BTW I do have another walk to contribute, I just need to find time to sort the photos.)
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I have lots of photos of that pier and it’s surrounds, Elizabeth. It really is a fascinating structure. That bit of coast can look dull under grey skies but it was such a superb day for photos. Thank you!
No hurry with your walk 🙂 Whenever you’re ready.
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Here it is!
https://elizabethkrallphotos.wordpress.com/2015/01/21/walking-home-from-work/
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Thank you 🙂
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Gorgeous walk, Jo! Golf courses really are built at the most stunning of locations… indulgent sport 🙂
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Thank you 🙂 Yes, I guess so, Kan.
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