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St Mary's Lighthouse

Castle & Historic Landmark · Tyne and Wear, England

St Mary's Lighthouse is a castle & historic landmark in Tyne and Wear, England. See prices, opening times, the best days to avoid the crowds, parking and food, with every detail dated so you know how fresh it is.

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PriceAdult £7 · Child £3.50 · Family £17
Checked on North Tyneside Council's page: adult £7, child or senior £3.50, family (2+2) £17. The island is reached by a tidal causeway, so you can only cross around low tide; check crossing times before you go. The shop is free to visit.
Opening timesOpen on days when the causeway tide allows; check the council's opening and crossing times (phone 0191 643 4777).
Best time to goLow tide only; check crossing times.
School holiday tipEarly July is the sweet spot for Scottish families: English/Welsh schools stay in until about 20-23 July. Late August is the English/Welsh peak, so choose Tue-Thu and arrive at opening.
Best agesAbout 5+; steps and uneven ground, so check pram access
All ages; the 137 steps to the top suit confident walkers.
If it rainsMixed: walls and courtyards are outdoors, some rooms give shelter
ParkingLarge pay-and-display car parks on the mainland by the causeway. (Not stated)
FoodRefreshments from the shop; cafés and fish and chips in Whitley Bay. Rock pooling by the causeway is free.
Money saverCheck membership value (English Heritage, National Trust, HES, Cadw); family tickets usually beat singles.
Top tipsLighthouse on a tidal island at Whitley Bay; rockpools at low tide.
What to packSturdy shoes, layers, picnic, carrier for toddlers

Details checked against the official website on 23 Oct 2026. Venue website or source

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