Hartlepool History

Hartlepools natural harbour is County Durhams main port and is to be commended for its attempts to reverse the decline brought about by the downturn in local industry. St. Hildas Church has dominated the headland at Hartlepool since the 12th century. By the 13th century the port had gained such importance that protecting walls were built around the town to deter marauding Scots. The coming of the railways in the 1830s meant the docks had to be extended to cope with the demands of trading coal from the Durham coalfields and those of the local ship building trade.

Like so many other industrial towns Hartlepool fell into decline but they have spent a great deal of time and money rejuvenating the dockland area and converting it into the popular Hartlepool Historic Quay attraction. The area has been faithfully recreated to represent an 18th century seaport where visitors can see fighting ships, naval memorabilia and a period maritime inn.