St. mary lighthouse uk

St. Mary's Lighthouse, located on St. Mary's Island near Whitley Bay, England, guided sailors in the North Sea from 1898 to 1984.

About this subject

St. Mary's Lighthouse was built in 1898 to aid navigation along the northeast coast of England, near the town of Whitley Bay. The tower, made of masonry and painted white with red bands, stands 38 meters tall, with its original light beam 44 meters above sea level, visible up to 26 nautical miles. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1984 and now operates as a museum open to the public, showcasing historical equipment and telling the stories of the keepers who lived there.

St. Mary's Island is accessible only at low tide via a causeway connecting it to the mainland. The surrounding area is a nature reserve, an important spot for observing seabirds such as gulls, cormorants, and terns. During high tide, the site becomes isolated, adding a sense of adventure for visitors who plan their crossing according to tide tables.

Climbing the 137 steps to the top of the tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Northumberland coast, including the Marsden Bay cliffs and the city of Newcastle to the south. The lighthouse has appeared in film productions, such as the 2012 movie "The Devil's Eye," and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the region. The original construction used a first-order Fresnel lens, which was removed after decommissioning and is now displayed at the local museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to St. Mary's Lighthouse?

The lighthouse is on St. Mary's Island near Whitley Bay. Check tide times as the causeway is covered at high tide. Parking is available on the mainland near the coast.

Is the lighthouse still operational?

No, St. Mary's Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1984. It now serves as a museum and visitor center, open to the public during summer months and specific times.

How many steps are there in the tower?

There are 137 steps to the top of the tower. The climb offers spectacular views of the coast and the North Sea.