St. mary lighthouse uk

St. Mary's Lighthouse stands on Whitley Bay, northeast coast of England, a historic landmark and tourist spot over 120 years old.

About this subject

St. Mary's Lighthouse is located on a small island off Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear, northeast England. Opened in 1898, the lighthouse stands 38 meters tall and was designed by engineers Sir Thomas Matthews and William Douglass. It guided ships through the treacherous St. Mary's reef, a historically dangerous area for shipwrecks.

The lighthouse operated with a first-order lens and oil lamp, later electrified, until decommissioning in 1984. It is now owned by North Tyneside Council and open to the public as a museum and visitor center. During low tide, visitors can reach the island via a stone causeway. The site offers panoramic views of the North Sea and is an important seabird observation point.

Interesting facts: St. Mary's Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United Kingdom. It has appeared in local films and TV series. It also houses an exhibition on the history of lighthouses and navigation in the region. The name derives from a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint Mary that once stood on the island. In 2002, the lighthouse underwent a full restoration, including repair of windows and the original lighting system. It is a Grade II listed building by Historic England.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It was built in 1898 to warn ships of the St. Mary's reef, a dangerous area off Whitley Bay where many shipwrecks occurred.

Can I visit the lighthouse now?

Yes, the lighthouse is open to the public as a museum. Access is via a stone causeway during low tide. Check tide times before visiting.

How tall is the lighthouse and why is it famous?

The lighthouse is 38 meters tall. It is famous for its scenic location, being one of the most photographed lighthouses in the UK, and its century-old history.