Hawthorn Dene is the second largest Dene in County Durham with unspoilt semi-natural broadleaved woodland and species rich Magnesian limestone meadows. It is managed by Durham Wildlife Trust and the coastal edge is owned by the National Trust. The dene is of special interest and in need of protection because it is one of the few areas of relatively undisturbed woodland in East Durham. Nearly 200 different plants, trees and animals have been recorded in the dene. Ash, sycamore and oak trees are found in abundance, whilst on the lower slopes, yew can be found which is considered rate in Britain. Roe deer can sometimes be seen wandering through the woodland, along with foxes and badgers. Woodpeckers, nuthatches, jays, tree creepers and blue tits are amount the many birds found in the woodland.