St Mary's Lighthouse: A Historic Coastal Beacon and Nature Reserve
Historic 1898 lighthouse on a tidal island with panoramic coastal views, seal habitats, and a captivating visitor centre.
St Mary's Lighthouse, perched on a tidal island off Whitley Bay, North East England, is a Grade II listed lighthouse built in 1898. Accessible via a causeway at low tide, it offers panoramic views of the coastline and serves as a visitor centre with a museum, café, and nature reserve featuring rock pools and seal habitats.
A brief summary to St Mary's Lighthouse
- St Mary's Island Causeway, Whitley Bay, NE26 4RS, GB
- +441916434777
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check tide times carefully before visiting, as the causeway to the island is submerged at high tide.
- Climb the 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views of the North East coast.
- Visit the museum and visitor centre to learn about the lighthouse’s history and local wildlife.
- Look out for seals resting on the rocks around the island, especially during low tide.
- Use the wheelchair-accessible ramp on the causeway for easier access during low tide.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Newcastle, take the Metro to Whitley Bay station, then catch bus number 308 towards Blyth. The total journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Note that the final approach requires a short walk and timing your visit around low tide.
-
Car
Drive to Whitley Bay and park in designated car parks near the seafront. From there, it is about a 1.8-mile walk to the lighthouse causeway. Parking fees apply, typically around £2-£5 depending on duration and season.
-
Walking
For a scenic route, walk along the coastal path from Whitley Bay beach to the lighthouse. The walk is approximately 1.8 miles (3 km) on flat terrain and suitable for most fitness levels. Ensure to plan your return crossing with tide times.
St Mary's Lighthouse location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Mary's Lighthouse
Origins and Maritime Heritage
St Mary's Lighthouse stands on St Mary's Island, also known historically as Bait Island, a small rocky tidal island just north of Whitley Bay. The site has a long maritime history, with a light maintained by monks from Tynemouth Priory as early as the 11th century to warn ships of dangerous coastal rocks. The current lighthouse was constructed between 1896 and 1898 by the John Miller company of Tynemouth, replacing an earlier lighthouse at Tynemouth Priory that had become less effective due to industrial pollution. The lighthouse was designed to improve navigation safety along this hazardous stretch of coast, where several shipwrecks had occurred during the 19th century.Architectural and Technical Features
The lighthouse is approximately 38 metres (120 feet) tall and built from brick covered with cement render. It originally housed a first-order rotating 'bi-valve' Fresnel lens made in Paris, which produced a distinctive double flash every 20 seconds. Initially lit by a paraffin vapour lamp, it was the last Trinity House lighthouse to use oil before being electrified in 1977. The adjacent keepers’ cottages, constructed of stone and linked to the tower by a covered walkway, provided accommodation for the lighthouse keepers. Access to the island was originally by stepping stones at low tide until a causeway was built in 1929, allowing safer passage.Decommissioning and Transformation
St Mary's Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1984 after modern navigational technology rendered it obsolete. Following its closure, the lighthouse and keepers’ cottages were repurposed as a visitor centre and museum managed by North Tyneside Council. The original Fresnel lens was removed and displayed in a lighthouse museum, but a smaller optic from another decommissioned lighthouse was installed in the tower for display. The site was granted Grade II listed status in 2012, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.Visitor Experience and Natural Environment
Visitors can explore the lighthouse by climbing 137 steps to the lantern room, offering sweeping views along the North East coast from the North Yorkshire coast to the Cheviot Hills on clear days. The surrounding nature reserve features diverse habitats including rock pools, cliff-top grassland, a beach, and newly created wetlands. The island is an important haul-out site for seals, which can often be spotted resting on the rocks. Facilities include a small museum detailing the lighthouse’s history, a visitor centre, a gift shop with unique local items, and a café. Accessibility is enhanced by a ramp on the causeway, making the island reachable for wheelchair users during low tide.Unique Tidal Island Setting
St Mary's Island is connected to the mainland by a 170-metre causeway submerged at high tide, creating a dramatic tidal island experience. Visitors must time their visit carefully according to tide tables to safely cross. The interplay of land and sea around the island offers a dynamic coastal environment rich in marine life and birdwatching opportunities. The causeway and island setting provide a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a memorable destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.Conservation and Community Engagement
The lighthouse and island are managed with a focus on conservation, balancing visitor access with protection of wildlife habitats. Educational programs and exhibitions promote awareness of the area's natural and cultural heritage. The site encourages responsible visitation, highlighting the importance of tide awareness and environmental stewardship. Community involvement through volunteer programs and events helps maintain the lighthouse as a vibrant local landmark and nature reserve.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hole in The Wall
5.7 km
Historic coastal landmark in Blyth featuring a unique hole framing stunning beach views and easy beach access.
Collingwood Monument
6.6 km
A commanding tribute to Admiral Collingwood overlooking the River Tyne, celebrating a naval hero’s legacy at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Westmorland Way
9.4 km
Explore Cramlington from Westmorland Way, your convenient bus stop for seamless access to local attractions and amenities.
Salisbury House
10.6 km
Historic Salisbury House in Wallsend stands on ancient Roman fort grounds, bridging centuries of military and industrial heritage.
Jesmond Dene Mill
12.5 km
Historic Jesmond Dene Mill ruins nestled beside a scenic waterfall in Newcastle’s tranquil Victorian woodland park.
King John's Palace
12.9 km
Explore the fortified ruins of a 13th-century manor house in Newcastle’s Heaton Park, steeped in medieval history and royal intrigue.
Hunkleton stone
12.9 km
A majestic glacial erratic on Newbiggin Beach, symbolizing natural history and community spirit in Northumberland’s coastal town.
Saint Mary's Well
12.9 km
Discover Saint Mary's Well, a serene historic pilgrimage site in Jesmond, Newcastle, famed for its healing waters and medieval sacred legacy.
Jess moore memorial wall 23/6/17 - 7/11/19
13.9 km
Explore the Jess Moore Memorial Wall in Newcastle upon Tyne, a heartfelt tribute to love and community resilience that reflects the spirit of the local culture.
W.D.Stephens Memorial
14.2 km
Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
Little Buildings
14.3 km
An intimate live music venue in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, perfect for discovering new bands and enjoying craft beers in a laid-back, buzzing atmosphere.
William Coulson Monument
14.3 km
A historic bronze tribute to William Coulson, Newcastle’s pioneering humanitarian and animal welfare advocate, with unique drinking troughs for animals.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
14.6 km
A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
Claremont Tower
14.6 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
Blacksmiths Needle
14.7 km
A captivating 7.6m steel sculpture on Newcastle Quayside, blending maritime themes with the five senses and a mysterious sixth sense.
Unmissable attractions to see
Seaton Sluice Beach
2.6 km
Seaton Sluice Beach offers a peaceful sandy retreat on the Northumberland coast, blending historic harbour charm with scenic dunes and coastal walks.
Whitley Bay
2.8 km
Whitley Bay offers golden beaches, iconic landmarks, and a vibrant seaside atmosphere just a short trip from Newcastle.
National Trust - Seaton Delaval Hall
3.2 km
Explore Seaton Delaval Hall, a dramatic Baroque masterpiece with a fiery past and vibrant restoration, nestled in Northumberland’s historic landscape.
Tynemouth
6.2 km
Historic coastal town at the River Tyne’s mouth, blending medieval ruins, sandy beaches, and vibrant seaside charm.
Tynemouth Priory and Castle
6.4 km
Explore centuries of history and stunning coastal views at Tynemouth Priory and Castle, a majestic fortress overlooking the North Sea.
The Rising Sun Countryside Centre
7.7 km
A 162-hectare green haven in North Tyneside offering woodlands, wildlife, trails, a community farm, and family-friendly countryside experiences.
Asda Blyth Superstore
9.1 km
A comprehensive and convenient shopping destination in Blyth offering groceries, clothing, pharmacy, café, and more with extended daily hours.
Segedunum Roman Fort & Museum
10.6 km
Explore Segedunum, the eastern gateway to Hadrian's Wall, with interactive exhibits, ancient ruins, and panoramic views over Tyneside.
Hadrian’s Wall Path
11.0 km
Follow the footsteps of Roman legions along the historic Hadrian’s Wall Path from Wallsend’s ancient fort to the wild northern English countryside.
Northumberlandia
11.6 km
Explore Northumberlandia, a monumental earth sculpture blending art, nature, and stunning countryside views near Cramlington.
Northumberlandia (Lady of the North)
11.6 km
Explore Northumberlandia, a monumental living sculpture blending art, nature, and heritage in the heart of Northumberland’s reclaimed landscape.
Northumbrian Gifts
12.2 km
Discover Northumberland’s finest artisan spirits, craft beers, and unique gift hampers in the heart of Ashington.
Paddy Freeman's Park
12.3 km
A peaceful urban retreat in Newcastle with scenic trails, a boating lake, sports facilities, and a welcoming café for all ages.
Jesmond Dene Quarry
12.4 km
Discover the peaceful Jesmond Dene Quarry, a historic sandstone site transformed into a scenic garden oasis within Newcastle’s ancient woodland valley.
Jesmond Dene
12.5 km
A serene Victorian woodland park in Newcastle, rich with history, wildlife, and scenic riverside trails.
Essential places to dine
The Snowy Owl
11.5 km
A charming country pub in Cramlington offering rustic British fare, accessible facilities, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Lovage Jesmond
13.1 km
Michelin-listed modern Mediterranean restaurant in Jesmond, blending seasonal British and European ingredients with warm, unpretentious dining.
Sohe Restaurant
13.2 km
Sophisticated pan-Asian dining in Jesmond, Newcastle – where bold flavours meet modern style and attentive service.
Peace & Loaf restaurant
13.2 km
Innovative modern British cuisine with nostalgic flavors and exceptional service in Jesmond’s stylish, relaxed setting.
Jam Jar
13.2 km
Savor Anglo-American comfort food in a sleek, industrial-chic setting with craft drinks and lively vibes in Jesmond’s heart.
Fat Hippo Jesmond
13.4 km
Original Fat Hippo in Jesmond serves bold, messy burgers and dirty fries in a lively, inclusive atmosphere with vegan and gluten-free options.
Florence Jesmond
13.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Florence Jesmond, the heart of Jesmond’s vibrant dining scene.
Branches Restaurant
13.6 km
Elegant British dining in Jesmond with seasonal menus, handcrafted cocktails, and a unique blossom tree ambience.
Dosa Kitchen
13.6 km
Experience authentic South Indian cuisine with vibrant dosas and flavorful curries in Jesmond’s welcoming Dosa Kitchen.
Fratello's
13.8 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Cook House
14.0 km
Discover the flavors of Newcastle at Cook House - where fresh ingredients meet creative cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
As You Like It
14.1 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
Gusto Italian
14.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside at Gusto Italian.
Victors Newcastle
14.8 km
Experience modern Asian-inspired cuisine and vibrant cocktails under the wisteria on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside waterfront.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Newcastle
14.8 km
Stylish modern British dining and boutique hotel luxury on Newcastle’s scenic Quayside with riverside views and exclusive private rooms.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Co-op Food - Seaton Sluice - Beresford Road
1.7 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Seaton Sluice, offering a variety of groceries and local products for your coastal adventures.
For the Love of the North
2.7 km
Discover Northern England’s spirit through locally crafted gifts and unique souvenirs at Whitley Bay’s charming boutique.
Behålla Store
3.2 km
Curated vintage fashion in the heart of Whitley Bay's independent shopping district.
Bellwoods Lifestyle Store
3.3 km
A warm, independent gift shop in Whitley Bay’s Park View Shopping Centre, offering curated homewares, books, stationery and lifestyle finds with a coastal charm.
Meander Gifts
3.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures at Meander Gifts, Whitley Bay’s charming boutique rooted in heritage and creativity.
Saltrock Blyth
5.3 km
Trendy surfwear and casual beach apparel in Blyth’s vibrant South Beach Retail Centre.
Tesco Express
5.8 km
Your friendly neighborhood Tesco Express at The South Beach Estate, open daily with fresh groceries and essentials from dawn till late night.
Fine & Sandy
6.2 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and stylish homewares in the heart of Tynemouth’s vibrant Front Street at Fine & Sandy.
To the moon and back
6.3 km
Charming gift shop on Tynemouth’s Front Street offering unique souvenirs and friendly service in a welcoming coastal town setting.
The Beacon Centre
7.0 km
Discover The Beacon Centre in North Shields—your go-to shopping destination for diverse retail experiences and delightful cafes.
Marks and Spencer
7.2 km
A modern, versatile Marks and Spencer store offering quality fashion, food, and homeware in Wallsend’s Silverlink Shopping Park.
Boyes
9.1 km
Affordable home and family essentials in the heart of Cramlington's premier shopping destination.
Asda Cramlington Superstore
9.2 km
A comprehensive supermarket experience within Cramlington’s lively Manor Walks Shopping Centre, blending convenience, variety, and community spirit.
Barbour Factory Outlet
10.8 km
Discover authentic British heritage and timeless outdoor style at the Barbour Factory Outlet in South Shields, home of iconic waxed jackets and quality craftsmanship.
The Curiosity Box
12.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and timeless style at The Curiosity Box in Newcastle’s vibrant Chillingham Road district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fox & Finch
3.1 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant in Whitley Bay offering hearty meals, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere with a modern industrial charm.
Left Luggage Room
3.3 km
Cozy micro-pub inside Monkseaton Metro Station offering rustic charm, quality craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere in Whitley Bay.
Willow Bay cocktail bar
3.3 km
Cozy and vibrant cocktail bar with eclectic décor, local craft ales, and a lively community spirit in the heart of Whitley Bay.
The Head of Steam Tynemouth
6.3 km
A lively Tynemouth pub offering exceptional craft beers, live music, and hearty pies steps from the beach and historic landmarks.
The Salutation
6.3 km
Lively seaside pub offering stone-baked pizzas, craft beers, and live sports in the heart of Tynemouth’s vibrant Front Street.
The Two Pennies
6.9 km
Quirky and welcoming bar in North Shields with great beers, lively events, and a friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Low Lights Tavern
6.9 km
A cozy and lively pub in Tynemouth offering warm hospitality, quality drinks, and hearty meals in a charming coastal setting.
The Juke Shed
7.0 km
A vibrant Fish Quay bar renowned for live local music, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere in historic Tynemouth.
Dejavu Nightclub Blyth
7.1 km
Vibrant late-night hotspot in Blyth offering lively weekend parties, diverse cocktails, and private event hosting in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Wallaw
7.1 km
Historic 1930s Art Deco cinema transformed into a lively, family-friendly Wetherspoon pub with real ales and local charm in Blyth.
High Street Social Club
7.3 km
Lively and affordable social club in Blyth with great live music, friendly staff, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Sand Dancer
8.8 km
A vibrant coastal pub and restaurant in South Shields offering relaxed dining, live music, and family-friendly charm by the sea.
The Red Lion - JD Wetherspoon
11.7 km
Historic Bedlington pub offering quality ales, hearty meals, and a welcoming community atmosphere since 1902.
97 & Social
13.2 km
Lively Jesmond gastro bar with innovative cocktails, comfort food, and fireside charm on buzzing Osborne Road – perfect for brunches, dates, or casual nights out.
Spy
13.3 km
Catch the action at Spy Bar Jesmond—big screens, juicy burgers, premium pints, and unbeatable sports vibes on lively Osborne Road.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dance Delicious
14.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.
World HQ
15.0 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Greys Club
15.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
15.2 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
15.3 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Popworld - Newcastle
15.3 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
15.4 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
15.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Tup Tup Palace
15.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
15.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Bohemia Newcastle
15.4 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
Sinners
15.4 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
The Social Club
15.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Cosmic Ballroom
15.5 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Digital
15.9 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
