A LOCAL BEAUTY SPOT WITH 75,000 VISITORS EACH YEAR

The coastal denes of Durham are an important wildlife habitat. The largest of these, Castle Eden National Nature Reserve, on the southern edge of Peterlee, is one of the finest woodlands in North East England. The steep sided dene was created by the Castle Eden Burn cutting through the soft magnesian limestone rocks.

The valley has been wooded since the retreat of the last ice age 8-10,000 years ago and has developed a rich and varied wildlife. The tree species include oak, ash alder and birch, but the valley is renowned for its yew trees. The name Eden is thought to be derived from the Saxon word Yoden, meaning Yew Dene. These long-lived evergreens with their gnarled trunks and roots give the Dene a magical atmosphere.

Over 500 acres of the valley are protected as a National Nature Reserve and are cared for by English Nature, who ensure that this special site is conserved for future generations to enjoy. The Dene may appear to be a natural wilderness, but in the 18th century trees from the Dene supplied timber for local industry and ship building. In the past some areas have been planted with beech, sycamore and conifers.

English Nature seeks to keep the woodland as natural as possible. Where they do not present a danger, dead and dying trees are left to provide nest holes for birds such as woodpeckers and nuthatches. The Dene is one of the last remaining strongholds of our native red squirrel.

Some non-native species, such as rhododendron, have been planted by previous owners of the Dene. The vigorous growth of these species reduces the natural regeneration of the slower growing trees, such as oak, which supply food and habitats for more wildlife. English Nature carries out careful removal of these non-native species to ensure that the balance of wildlife in the area is retained. In addition to maintaining over 12 miles of footpaths for visitors to explore, English Nature runs an extensive programme of events to encourage people to visit the Dene. These include woodland craft days, evening bat walks, bird watching, pond dipping and poetry workshops.

People from Peterlee and the surrounding area play an important role in helping to care for Castle Eden Dene. Volunteer wardens regularly walk the Dene, help visitors and monitor red squirrel numbers. Volunteer groups, such as the East Durham Volunteers for Conservation work with English Nature on projects such as tree planting and footpath repairs.

Last year over 100 people helped at the reserve, contributing more than 830 volunteer days. Local children find out about wildlife and help with practical conservation work through the Dene Team, a group for children aged 11-16. Many local children use the reserve as an outdoor classroom, guided by the English Nature Education Officer, and gain an understanding and appreciation of the wildlife on their doorstep.