St. mary lighthouse uk

St. Mary's Lighthouse, located on the namesake island in Whitley Bay, England, is a decommissioned historic lighthouse now serving as a museum and nature reserve.

About this subject

St. Mary's Lighthouse was built in 1898 to guide ships along the coast of Northumberland in northeastern England. Designed by engineer James Douglass, the stone lighthouse stands 38 meters tall and was automated in 1977, operating until 1984. It is now owned by North Tyneside Council and has been converted into a museum showcasing local maritime history, as well as housing a gift shop and a café. The island on which the lighthouse stands, St. Mary's Island, is accessible via a causeway that can only be crossed at low tide. The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, renowned for its diversity of seabirds. During high tide, the island becomes isolated, making the visit a unique experience. The lighthouse has appeared in various British films and TV series, and its spiral staircase leads visitors to a viewing platform with panoramic views of the North Sea and the Northumberland coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is St. Mary's Lighthouse?

The lighthouse is 38 meters tall, with 137 steps to the top.

Is St. Mary's Lighthouse still operational?

No, the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1984 and now serves as a museum and tourist attraction.

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

The lighthouse is on St. Mary's Island, accessible via a causeway at low tide. It is recommended to check tide times before visiting.