Lighthouse In Whitburn, Tyne And Wear
Built in the 1870s, it was the first lighthouse in the world to be designed and built specifically to use alternating electric current.
Souter Lighthouse was built in 1871 to prevent shipwrecks in the area around Whitburn. It is located around 3 miles south of the mouth of the River Tyne and it's light could be seen up to 26 miles away.
The lighthouse is no longer used for navigational purposes, but is open to the public and owned by the National Trust. The Engine Room, keeper's living quarters and light tower are accessible to the public and there are spectacular views from the top, although the staircase up is very narrow.
The lighthouse is said to be haunted and featured on the TV series 'Most Haunted' in 2002.
There are lovely walks along the coast close to Souter Lighthouse, in the area known as The Leas. The Leas are a series of coastal paths which stretch for around 2 miles along the 250 million year old cliffs. They are a great place for dog walking and bird watching.
Finally, here are some images from the top of the lighthouse, including inside of the light. Thanks to Ashley Lifghtfoot for these interior pictures and the tour guide who gave him permission!
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What three words
times.themes.lives
Lat / Long
54.97056, -1.36451
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The lighthouse is a 2 minute walk from the car park.
What three words
trick.pardon.spends
Lat / Long
54.96946, -1.36497
Souter Lighthouse has it's own car park and parking is free for National Trust members.
Contributed by Sandra Clemens
I love the great outdoors and have been a National Trust & English Heritage member for years. I also love going off the beaten track and finding places like Sharp's Folly or Rothley Castle which are hidden gems in Northumberland. My favourite recent hike was climbing Red Screes in the Lake District on a whim, not fully grasping how high 776m was. It was still an achievement to conquer a Wainwright walk and I hope to do more one day.
A circular labyrinth made out of a selection of stones in memory of a dog.
A small rock arch off the coast in South Shields near Souter Lighthouse.
Decommissioned leading lights in North Shields.
Two obelisk navigation beacons that when lined up would direct you into Holy Island harbour.
A lighthouse situated 100m inland in Bath Terrace, Blyth.
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