St. mary lighthouse uk

St. Mary's Lighthouse, located on St. Mary's Island in Tyne and Wear, England, is a historic decommissioned lighthouse now serving as a visitor attraction and local heritage site.

About this subject

St. Mary's Lighthouse was built in 1898 to aid navigation along the Northumberland coast near Whitley Bay. Designed by engineer Thomas Matthews, it features a 44-meter granite tower with 137 steps to the top. It operated for 86 years, emitting a white light every 20 seconds, until it was decommissioned in 1984 as modern navigation systems rendered it obsolete.

Today, the lighthouse is a major tourist attraction managed by North Tyneside Council. It is accessible only at low tide, as the island becomes isolated during high tide. The site includes a visitor centre with exhibits on the lighthouse's history, marine life, and birds. The building also houses an art gallery and a café.

St. Mary's Island is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its colonies of gulls, cormorants, and other seabirds. In winter, grey seals are often seen resting on the rocks. The walk across the stone causeway offers panoramic coastal views, and the area is popular for birdwatching and photography.

Notably, the lighthouse was preceded by a tragic shipwreck in 1861: the SS Exe struck the rocks, killing 29 people. This disaster prompted calls for a lighthouse, which was finally constructed three decades later.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was St. Mary's Lighthouse built?

The lighthouse was built in 1898 and operated until 1984, when it was decommissioned.

Can I visit the lighthouse?

Yes, the lighthouse is open to the public as a visitor centre. Access is on foot across a stone causeway at low tide only.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are offered, covering the lighthouse's history and the island's ecology. Check the official website for schedules.