Souter Lighthouse

Souter Lighthouse is a red and white brick tower on the South Tyneside coast with a cylindrical structure and lantern room at the top. The building stands about 23 meters tall and is made of solid masonry that reflects the harsh coastal setting.

The lighthouse was completed in 1871 under the design of James Nicholas Douglass and was a breakthrough as the first built specifically to use alternating current electricity. This innovation permanently changed how lighthouse lighting systems operated.

The lighthouse tells the story of the keepers who lived and worked here, showing how vital their role was to maritime safety. The rooms give a sense of daily life for these keepers and their families along the coast.

The tower can be climbed and shows the engine rooms, keeper's quarters, and other working areas of the structure. Allow enough time to explore all levels and enjoy the views from the top.

This lighthouse was one of the first buildings in Britain to run entirely on alternating current electricity, well before this technology spread to homes. This early adoption made it a pioneer of the electrical revolution.

Location: South Tyneside

Inception: 1871

Architects: James Nicholas Douglass

Height: 23 m

Made from material: brick

Operator: National Trust

Website: https://nationaltrust.org.uk/souter-lighthouse-and-the-leas

GPS coordinates: 54.97050,-1.36409

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:54