St. mary lighthouse uk

St. Mary's Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on St. Mary's Island in Whitley Bay, Northumberland, England, built in 1898.

About this subject

St. Mary's Lighthouse was built in 1898 to aid navigation along the northeast coast of England. Designed by engineer William Tregarthen Douglass, the lighthouse features a cylindrical masonry tower with red and white horizontal bands, characteristic of British lighthouses. It was decommissioned in 1984 when its function was replaced by a lighted buoy, and today it is a tourist attraction managed by Northumberland County Council.

St. Mary's Island, where the lighthouse is located, is a site of significant natural interest. During low tide, visitors can cross a stone causeway that connects the island to the mainland, but it is essential to check tide times to avoid being stranded. The area is also a seabird sanctuary, with species such as puffins and black-headed gulls frequently spotted.

The lighthouse is a Grade II listed building, protected for its architectural and historical value. Visitors can climb the 137 steps to the top of the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the Northumberland coast. Inside, there is a museum that tells the story of the lighthouse and the lives of keepers, featuring original artifacts and interactive exhibits.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was St. Mary's Lighthouse built and why was it decommissioned?

The lighthouse was built in 1898 and decommissioned in 1984, replaced by a more economical and automated lighted buoy.

Can you visit St. Mary's Lighthouse? How to get there?

Yes, it is open to the public. Access is via a stone causeway at low tide. It is essential to check tide times before visiting, as the island becomes cut off at high tide.

What is there to see inside the lighthouse?

Inside there is a museum with exhibits on the lighthouse's history, original equipment, and keepers' lives. You can also climb to the top for panoramic views.