Beach just a few miles from Sunderland named as one of the most secluded beach across the UK

According to research conducted by OnBuy.com, Horden beach in County Durham has been named the second most secluded beach in the UK.

Data suggests that the North East beach is one of 15 beaches that have been tagged ‘the least’ on Instagram making it a ‘secret gem’.

A total of 447 Horden beach hashtags were recorded on Instagram, making it the second most secluded.

First place was taken by Traeth yr Ora Beach in Anglesey, Wales with only 160 hashtags.

The news comes after UK staycations became more popular during the pandemic following restrictions on foreign travel.

Horden beach is part of the coastline that for decades was used as a dumping ground for four mines in East Durham – Noses Point, Easington Colliery, Horden Colliery and Blackhall Colliery.

Research suggests that 12km stretch of beach was buried under no less than 2.5million tonnes of colliery waste – every single year.

Now, the coast has been completely rejuvenated since the late 1990s which is now a haven for wildlife and a place for people to enjoy again.

A spokesperson for OnBuy.com said: “447 hashtags make the peaceful Horden Beach even more unique in second place. Once known as one of the most polluted beaches in Europe, this natural haven now inhabits rare butterflies and wildflowers.

"Cliffs such as Blackhall create a picturesque view, perfect for walks along Durham’s Heritage Coast.”

You can subscribe to this website and enjoy unlimited access to local news, information and puzzles online. With a digital subscription, you can read more than five articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Simply click ‘Subscribe’ in the menu.