Description
St Mary's, accessible via a short causeway, is a popular part-time island with rich history. The Lighthouse, built in 1898, served until 1984 when modern navigational techniques made it no longer needed. Now, it and the former keepers' cottages operate as a visitor centre by North Tyneside Council. The Nature Reserve includes rock pools, clifftop grassland, a beach, and new wetland habitats.
Visitors can climb 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views of the North East coast. You can also use a video facility at ground level that allows you to experience the same views, live and in colour. Other exhibits detail the Lighthouse's history and local wildlife of St Mary's Nature Reserve.
Prices starts from £6.00 for adults, £3.00 for Child and £14.50 for Family(2 adults and 2 children). The shop, accessible without an admission fee, offers a range of unique gifts, souvenirs, and refreshments. If you are looking for Best place for day out with kids and families then this is the perfect destination offering fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories for everyone.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Things to do on the island: St Mary’s Island is a popular tourist attraction. The part time island has all the charm of a miniature island with a visitor centre and lighthouse with stunning coastal views during tidal access. Visitors can climb the 137 steps to the top of the lighthouse and explore the newly refurbished visitor centre that featuring new exhibitions and activities that shine a light on its rich history and local wildlife. These include:
- An indoor wildlife hide with HD cameras offering close-up views of seals and birds
- A time-lapse display showing tidal movements and views from the tower
- New exhibitions exploring the island’s history, geology, and wildlife
- An interactive vessel finder to identify and track passing ships in real time
- A children’s area called the Little Lighthouse Keepers’ zone, with themed toys, a mini play-lighthouse and submarine
- A virtual lighthouse keeper projection sharing stories of life on the island and day-to-day lighthouse operations
- Lots of visitors come to see the seals and birds on the reserve. There are wetlands on the wider reserve as well as cliff top grasslands and beaches to visit.
3.21 miles
