Souter Lighthouse


Only 2 miles south of South Shields, Souter Lighthouse overlooks the cliffs of Marsden Bay, high above the rocks and notorious currents of the 'Whitburn Steel' that have wrecked dozens of ships and claimed the lives of many mariners.

The lighthouse started operating in 1871 and was, at the time the most advanced in the world.

You can explore the lighthouse, starting in the Engine Room. Learn about how lighthouses work through video, displays and a variety of navigational equipment. See the cramped living quarters and climb the seventy six steps to the top of the tower to enjoy wide views of the coastline, from the mouth of the Tyne to the Tees. Or you can enjoy the same view without leaving the ground floor by operating the remote controlled CCTV.

After enjoying refreshments in Souter's own tea-room, you can walk the cliff top paths along The Leas, see the changing moods of the seascape below, and watch the seabirds on the cliffs and around the great sea-stack of Marsden Rock. Dogs on leads are welcome on The Leas. Please use 'pooper scoopers' - bins provided.

Facilities:

  • Tea-room with indoor & outdoor facilities
  • National Trust shop
  • Education Officer & base
  • Wheelchair access to groundfloor
  • Adapted WC
  • Braille guide
  • CCTV enables those unable to climb the tower to see the view from the top.

     

    Opening Times
    (2007 times)
    17th March to 28th October:
    Monday to Thursday & Saturday, Sunday 11.00am - 5.00pm, last entry 4.30pm.

    Admission Charges
    (2007 prices)
    Adult £4.40, Child (under 18) £2.80; Family Ticket £11.50
    Includes voluntary 10% donation; visitors can however choose to pay the standard admission prices which are displayed at the property.

    Groups Adult £3.50; Child £2.00.
    National Trust Members Free.

    Directions
    By bus, Stagecoach Sunderland - South Shields, passes Sunderland railway station and South Shields Metro station. Buses stop by main gate. Bus E1 from both Sunderland and South Shields
    Show map of Souter Lighthouse...

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