St.Mary's Lighthouse and Visitor Centre

Reached via a short causeway when the tides is out, St. Mary’s 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 The Lighthouse, completed in 1898 on a hazardous coast for shipping, remained operational until 1984 when it was superseded by modern navigational techniques. Since then the Lighthouse and former keepers’ cottages have been operated as a visitor centre by North Tyneside Council. The surrounding Nature Reserve contains an area of rockpools, clifftop grassland, a beach and newly created wetland habitats.

Climb the 137 steps to the top of the Lighthouse for the most spectacular views of the North East coast.

Other exhibits explain the history of the Lighthouse and give an insight into the wildlife of St. Mary’s Nature Reserve.

Bookings are welcome from groups, schools, colleges and youth and community groups; parties, weddings and room hire are also available. We can offer a wide range of programmes to suit your individual requirements. A warden service is available by prior arrangement. Private group visits outside of normal opening hours can also be arranged. Please telephone for details of facilities for meetings, training events and children’s parties.

Our shop can be visited without having to pay the Lighthouse admission charge. We have an extensive and unusual range of gifts, souvenirs and books, toys and cards.