St. Mary’s Lighthouse
Sightseeing attraction | Whitley Bay | England | United Kingdom
Historic landmark in Whitley Bay
St. Mary's Lighthouse is a picturesque and historic landmark on the coast of Whitley Bay in Tyne and Wear, Northeast England. This iconic lighthouse stands on the small, rocky island of St. Mary's Island, which is connected to the mainland by a causeway at low tide, offering a fascinating combination of maritime history, stunning nature, and a unique location on the North Sea. It is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the beauty of the coast, wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere of this remote place.
Nature reserve around St. Mary’s Island
The lighthouse was built between 1896 and 1898 by Trinity House, the organization responsible for Britain's lighthouses. It replaced older navigation aids in the region and was designed to warn ships of the dangerous rocks and shoals along the coast, especially the infamous Black Middens, a reef that had caused numerous shipwrecks. The tower itself is 38 meters high, made of brick and stone, and its white-painted base contrasts impressively with the dark lantern at the top. It was operational until 1984 when modern navigation systems took over its function. Since then, it has been managed by the North Tyneside Council and used as a museum and viewpoint.
Viewpoint at Tyne and Wear lighthouse
The island itself is a natural wonder. At low tide, it is accessible via a paved causeway that is submerged by the sea at high tide, making visiting times dependent on the tides. This rhythmic change between isolation and connection gives St. Mary's a special charm. The island is small - only about 150 meters long and 75 meters wide - and consists of rugged cliffs and grassy areas influenced by the salty sea air. Surrounding the island is a nature reserve with a 600-meter-long beach known for its rock pools. These pools are a paradise for naturalists, as they house crabs, starfish, anemones, and small fish that can be discovered at low tide.
Wildlife around St. Mary’s Lighthouse
For visitors, climbing the lighthouse is a highlight. The 137 steps lead to an observation platform, from where you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view: to the west, you can see the coastline of Whitley Bay and Tynemouth, to the east, the endless expanse of the North Sea, and on clear days, the view extends to the Cheviot Hills in the north. The interior of the tower has been converted into a small museum that tells the history of the lighthouse and the life of the lighthouse keepers. Original artifacts such as lamps, maps, and tools provide insight into the challenges of this profession, while models and display boards illuminate the maritime significance of the region.
Lighthouse museum in northeast England
The former lighthouse keeper's cottage next to the tower complements the experience. It has been renovated and now houses exhibitions as well as a small tea room offering refreshments. The cottage shows how keeper families lived in relatively cramped conditions, preserving the atmosphere of times past. The lighthouse itself is equipped with modern amenities such as electricity, but the historical structure - including the original Fresnel lens, now used as an exhibit - remains intact.
The wildlife around St. Mary's Lighthouse is another attraction. The island and the surrounding reserve are a hotspot for seabirds such as cormorants, gulls, and oystercatchers, nesting on the cliffs or fishing along the coast. Especially in spring and summer, terns and puffins attract visitors who observe the colonies with binoculars. Seals are also frequent guests, sunbathing on the rocks or swimming curiously near the causeway. The rock pools and the mudflats also provide habitat for a variety of small marine animals, making the place a vibrant ecosystem.
St. Mary's offers numerous activities. The causeway and the beach are perfect for walks, while cliff-top walks along the coast lead to additional viewpoints such as Curry's Point, a rock accessible at low tide. The mainland car park is the starting point for hikes, with paths mostly flat, although the causeway can be slippery when wet. The facility is partially wheelchair accessible, with a paved path to the island, but climbing the tower requires fitness due to the steep stairs. Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash to not disturb the wildlife.
St. Mary's Lighthouse is located near Whitley Bay, a charming coastal town with a promenade, cafes, and a sandy beach that completes the experience. The area is part of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, emphasizing the wild beauty of the landscape.
