In south Sunderland you can access the coast at few points between Hendon to the north and Ryhope to the south. The England Coast Path runs the length of the clifftop; and a little further inland, National Cycle Network Route 1 passes through Ryhope Village. Bus services stop along the coastal roads between Sunderland and Seaham; and you can find two coastal car parks at Hendon Beach and another at Seaham Hall. The nearest active railway stations are in Sunderland and at Seaham; and the Tyne and Wear Metro stops at Sunderland and Park Lane Interchange.
Access to beaches is limited and you should take care near cliffs, be aware of tides and avoid disturbing birds and other wildlife as much as possible. During the winter, birds need to feed regularly to survive. Disturbance from walking, dogs and other recreational activities can reduce feeding times for birds and significantly reduce their ability to survive. Rocky shore and sandy beaches are important areas where birds such as purple sandpiper and turnstone feed and rest.
