St Mary's Lighthouse
A lighthouse on a tidal islet off Whitley Bay. At low tide you can walk the causeway to the island and climb the tower, and grey seals are often seen on the rocks.
St Mary’s Lighthouse was built in 1898 on a small island at the northern end of Whitley Bay. A concrete causeway emerges only at low tide, so you must return before the tide comes in. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1984 and converted into a visitor centre. You can climb 137 steps to the top for views of the coastline. The rock pools around the island are great for exploring and for watching grey seals, and the nearby sea cliffs are good for birdwatching. Opening times change with the tides, so check the official tide tables before setting out. From Whitley Bay metro station, you will need to walk or take a bus to reach it.
Opening hours
Open according to tides
Nearby sights
- Tynemouth Longsands
- Tynemouth Priory and Castle
- Arbeia Roman Fort
- Segedunum Roman Fort
- Souter Lighthouse & The Leas
- Jesmond Dene
- Ouseburn Valley
- Seven Stories, National Centre for Children's Books