Track 12 - Carbon, Climate and Renewal: Blast Beach

New Writing North

Set off on this newly commissioned self-guided literary walk and discover Durham’s beautiful Heritage Coast! The UK is hosting the international community in Glasgow in November for COP26 – a United Nations conference where world leaders will discuss how to combat the climate emergency. Spend time walking in the lively harbour town of Seaham and along the Durham Heritage Coast enjoying the built and natural environment. Explore issues of climate change through the written word set against the backdrop of the former coal mining town, its surrounding landscape, seascape, and history. The walk lasts approximately half a day, longer if you include a meal break on the way. Please dress appropriately for the weather, ensuring sturdy footwear. The walk involves steep slopes and steps. This walk is created by Ruth Robson and includes material researched as part of Writing Durham, a partnership between Durham Book Festival and Durham University. Ruth Robson grew up in Sunderland, part of the historic County of Durham, leaving to go to university. Following a career in broadcasting in North East England, London and New York, she has since worked in the cultural and heritage sectors in the United States and back in her native North East England.