St. mary lighthouse uk

St. Mary's Lighthouse, located on St. Mary's Island in Whitley Bay, England, is a historic landmark on the northeast coast of the United Kingdom.

About this subject

St. Mary's Lighthouse stands on St. Mary's Island, near Whitley Bay in Tyne and Wear, northeast England. Built in 1898, it was designed by engineer John Rigg of Trinity House, the UK's lighthouse authority. The masonry tower is 38 meters tall and originally housed a first-order Fresnel lens, with a beam visible up to 26 nautical miles.

The island is of geological and ecological importance. At low tide, it is accessible via a stone causeway; at high tide, it becomes a true island. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, especially seabirds, and is part of the St. Mary's Island Local Nature Reserve, managed by local authorities.

After over 80 years of continuous operation, the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1984 due to modernized navigation systems. It was later converted into a museum and visitor center, run by the Friends of St. Mary's Island. Visitors can climb 137 steps to the top for panoramic views of the Northumberland coast and the North Sea. The site is a popular tourist destination, also featuring a café and trails for walking and birdwatching.

An interesting fact: the lighthouse appeared as a location in the 1990 film "The Witches," based on Roald Dahl's book. Additionally, the island contains remains of a medieval chapel dedicated to St. Mary, dating from the 7th century, which gave the place its name. This blend of maritime history, nature, and culture makes St. Mary's Lighthouse a symbol of the British coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It was built in 1898 to aid navigation off the northeast coast of England, replacing an earlier coal-fired beacon on a nearby structure.

Can you visit St. Mary's Lighthouse?

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

How tall is St. Mary's Lighthouse and how many steps does it have?

The lighthouse is 38 meters tall with 137 steps to the top. From the top, there is a spectacular view of the coast and sea.