Whitley Bay is busy town with good beaches and promenades. It is probably best known for Spanish City (fairground) and Saint Mary's
lighthouse.
St Mary's Lighthouse (May 2001)
St. Mary's island has had a varied history, first as a medieval burial ground, then it had a pub
and following that a lighthouse. The lighthouse is 38 metres high and was constructed in 1898.
It was taken out of service in 1984 when it was no longer needed due to modern navigational techniques.
The lighthouse now has a visitor centre which illustrates local wildlife and the islands history.
It was used as a location for an Enid Blyton television series.
Those that are fit enough are allowed to climb the 137 steps.
The island is reached by walking a short causeway (when the tide is out!) There are also plenty rock pools to explore.
