Welcome to Houghton Le Spring

From country parks to independent shops, traditional pubs and annual festivals, Houghton Le Spring is a lively and vibrant place to live. Located near Durham, Newcastle and Sunderland, a new home in Houghton le Spring is ideal if you want good commuter routes to nearby cities without compromising on a quieter, more rural lifestyle.

A quick history

Ancient and Roman remains have been found in the town, but Houghton le Spring was first mentioned in the 12th century Boldon Book as a small collection of cottages. The town grew steadily over the centuries that followed, and in 1823 the first mining shaft was sunk, remaining open until 1981.

The Houghton Feast, a tradition that continues to this day, actually began in the 12th century as a celebration of Michaelmas.

Business and industry

Although Houghton le Spring is historically a mining town, today most residents commute to larger towns and cities nearby for work. Major employers in the local area include Nissan and DB Arriva in Sunderland, The Go-Ahead Group, Virgin Money and The Sage Group in Newcastle, Vertu Motors in Gateshead and Northumbrian Water Group in Durham. Local universities including Newcastle University, Durham University and the University of Sunderland, which also employ a large number of staff.

Things to do in the area

Houghton Le Spring is surrounded by countryside, with Joe’s Pond, run by the Durham Wildlife Trust, being one of the most popular local spots for a relaxing walk. Rainton Meadows and Hawthorn Dene are also nearby, while Blackhall Rocks, Whitley Bay and Longsands Beach are perfect for stroll along the coast as you take in the fresh sea air. 

If you enjoy shopping, Houghton le Spring town centre is home to a number of independent shops, cafes, traditional pubs and a library. Dalton Park Outlet is nearby, where you can shop for both designer and high street labels.

Penshaw Equestrian Centre is near to the town, while Houghton le Spring Golf Club is ideal for a weekend round. Other great attractions nearby include Herrington Country Park, Hetton Lyons Park and Down at the Farm. The town also hosts Houghton Feast and Houghton-le-Spring Beer Festival each year. 

Travel and commuting

Houghton Le Spring is located on the A692 and near A1(M), ideal for car journeys to Sunderland, Newcastle and beyond. Although there’s no train station in the town, there are regular bus services. Travelling by car, you can get to Sunderland in 15 minutes away from Houghton le Spring, while Durham can be reached in just less than 15 minutes, and Newcastle in 20 minutes.

Going further afield, Edinburgh can be reached in two hours 30 minutes from Houghton le Spring. The quickest way to get to London is by train from Newcastle with a journey time of two hours 50 minutes to King’s Cross.

If you’re going abroad, Newcastle International Airport is only 30 minutes away via the A1, and Durham Tees Valley Airport can be reached in 35 minutes.