This historic cemetery, formed from a combination of sand dunes and ship ballast, now supports species rich dune grassland with habitat of such quality that it is unique in Hartlepool and rare within the Tees Valley. The cemetery dates back to 1856, and was established to replace St. Hilda’s churchyard. Spion Kop was the name given by local people to the general area after the Boer War battle of the same name. The site has many unusual plants including pyramidal orchid and bloody crane’s bill.

Enjoy a selection of walks which take in seeing the beautiful wildflowers at this coastal cemetery, including the Headland – Hart Station Linear (approximately 4 miles) and the Spion Kop – Croft Gardens Circular (appoximately 3 miles).