Reached between the tides via a short causeway, St Mary’s Lighthouse has all the fascination of a miniature, part-time island. The Lighthouse, completed in 1898, on a hazardous coast for shipping, remained operational until 1984 when it was superseded by modern navigational techniques.

North Tyneside Council now operates the Lighthouse as a visitor centre, through the Libraries and Museums service.

Facilities include a popular shop and an exhibition/meeting room, which is available for hire.

Visitors can climb the 137 steps to the top of the Lighthouse, which provides spectacular views of the North East coast. The surrounding Nature Reserve contains an area of rock pools, cliff top grassland, a beach and a wetland habitat.
Further services provided include an educational service and organised activities during some school holidays.

Please check opening times, which are variable due to the tidal nature of the island and how to find us for further details.

Contact /Visit us

St Mary’s Lighthouse
St Mary’s Island
Whitley Bay
NE26 4RS

Tel: 0191 200 8652
stmaryslighthouse@northtyneside.gov.uk