St Mary's Island, Tidal island with lighthouse in Tyne and Wear, England
Description
St Mary's Island is a tidal island off the coast of Tyne and Wear featuring a white lighthouse standing on sandstone cliffs. A rocky causeway links it to the mainland, becoming passable only when the tide retreats and exposes the rocky path.
History
The island once held a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint Helen, serving as a burial ground for monks and local residents. This sacred site was central to the spiritual life of the surrounding region.
Culture
Grey seals frequently gather on the outer rocks, making this location a notable observation point for marine wildlife along England's northeastern coast.
Practical
Check tide tables before attempting to cross the causeway, as the island becomes inaccessible during high tide. Wear sturdy shoes for safe footing on the slippery rocks.
Did you know?
The lighthouse building now houses an interactive museum where visitors can explore maritime objects in former keeper's cottages. These hands-on exhibits reveal the everyday life of those who once tended the light.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Tyne and Wear).
Spanish City
2.7 km
Seaton Delaval Hall
3.2 km
St. Mary's Lighthouse
9 m
Playhouse, Whitley Bay
2.8 km
Spanish City Theatre
2.7 km
Chapel And Crematorium At Whitley Bay Cemetery
1.1 km
Church of St Edward
2.9 km
Church of Our Lady, Seaton Delaval
3.2 km
Turntable Mechanism 20 Metres West Of The King's Arms Hotel
2 km
Ha Ha Wall With Angle Bastions And Statues Enclosing Seaton Delaval Hall And Church Of Our Lady
3.2 km
Statue of Samson Slaying Philistine in Garden to West of Seaton Delaval Hall
3.3 km
Mausoleum 500 Metres East Of Seaton Delaval Hall
2.7 km
The Delaval Arms
1.2 km
Obelisk 900 Metres South South West Of Seaton Delaval Hall
2.6 km
War Memorial and Dwarf Walls, Steps and Piers Surrounding
2.6 km
Sewer Gas Lamp
2.7 km
Seaton Sluice and Old Hartley War Memorial
1.9 km
Kings Arms Hotel With Coach House To East
2 km
Drinking Fountain
2.1 km
Privy 80 Metres North East Of Seaton Delaval Hall
3.2 km
Sewer Gas Lamp
2.6 km
Drinking Fountain East Of Church Of St Paul
3.3 km
Icehouse 100 Metres North East Of Seaton Delaval Hall
3.2 km
The Octagon
2 km
Sewer Gas Lamp
2.6 km
Outbuilding 60 Metres South West Of Fort House
1.2 km
Orangery In Walled Garden 300 Metres North East Of Seaton Delaval Hall
3.1 km
Milepost, Collywell Bay Road, Seaton Sluice
1.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes