Where to Find Sea Glass in Seaham: A Collector’s Guide to the UK’s Most Famous Sea Glass Beach
If you're searching for the best place to find sea glass in the UK, look no further than Seaham Beach in County Durham. Famed among collectors for its colourful, well-rounded glass and rich industrial past, Seaham is a seaside destination with a story, and a treasure trove, for every beachcomber.
Why Seaham is So Special
Seaham’s reputation as a sea glass hotspot is rooted in history. In the late 19th and early 20th century, the Londonderry Bottleworks, once one of the largest glass factories in Britain, operated along this stretch of coast. The factory is said to have discarded waste glass directly into the sea, including beautiful “end-of-day” glass: multicoloured offcuts and overflows from artisan batches. Today, these pieces wash ashore, tumbled by the tides into frosted, one-of-a-kind finds.
What to Look For
Collectors at Seaham often find a wide range of colours, from common greens and browns to incredibly rare blues, reds, and even marbled or multi-coloured sea glass. These pieces tend to be thick, smooth, and well-shaped—ideal for jewellery or display. Many fragments found here are more rounded than those on other UK beaches, thanks to the strong surf and deep tumbling cycle in this part of the North Sea.
When to Visit
For the best results, plan your visit during low tide, ideally just after a storm or heavy sea swell. Early mornings tend to offer the best selection before the beach gets picked over. Always check tide times and be mindful of shifting weather conditions along the North East coast.
Where Exactly to Search
The main stretch of Seaham Beach (also known as Seaham Hall Beach or North Beach) is the most popular spot. Look along the high-tide line, around clusters of pebbles, or where the sand and rock pools meet. South of Seaham Harbour, Blast Beach also has a reputation for occasional glass finds, though the terrain is more rugged.
Top Tips for Sea Glass Hunting in Seaham
Bring a small bag or container to collect your finds, and wear sturdy footwear as the beach is pebbly in many areas. A hand rake or small scoop can be useful for turning over shingle. Be respectful of the coastline, take only memories and sea glass, and leave no trace behind.
Making Something with Your Finds
Once you've returned with your sea glass haul, why not turn it into a piece of jewellery or art? Take a look at our tutorial on how to drill sea glass, and explore our range of diamond drill bits and jewellery tools to get started.
Planning Your Trip
Seaham is located just off the A19, about 30 minutes south of Newcastle and 20 minutes north of Hartlepool. There’s free parking near Seaham Hall Beach and a promenade with cafes and shops for a post-hunt warm-up. You might also want to visit the nearby Seaham Waves gallery, which showcases beautiful sea glass jewellery made from locally collected pieces.
Tools for Drilling and Shaping Your Sea Glass
Ready to turn your Seaham sea glass into a beautiful piece of jewellery or art? Explore our full range of professional tools to help you drill, shape, and polish sea glass safely and effectively.
Diamond Drill Bits | Jewellery Tools | Glass Cutting Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seaham the best place to find sea glass in the UK?
Yes, Seaham is widely considered the best UK beach for finding sea glass, thanks to its industrial glassmaking history and strong tides. Rare and multicoloured pieces are often found here.
What is end-of-day sea glass?
End-of-day sea glass refers to multicoloured glass created from leftover molten glass at Victorian factories. These scraps were discarded into the sea, where they later became unique collector's pieces.
Can I take sea glass from Seaham Beach?
Yes, collecting small amounts of sea glass for personal use is allowed. Be respectful of the environment and avoid disturbing local wildlife or large-scale removal.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a time-honoured collector or a beginner, Seaham Beach is one of the UK’s most rewarding locations for hunting sea glass. Enjoy your time uncovering a piece of history shaped by the sea.
