St. Mary's Island is about 2 miles north of Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear in the north east of England. Access to the island is at low tide only, which can be around 16 hours a day via a causeway. At high tide, this is covered. The tides vary each day and time of the year. Tide tables are displayed. The island is looked after by North Tyneside Council.
This is a very hazardous coast creating problems for shipping. At a height of 151 feet, the lighthouse is the dominating feature of the island. It was built along with the lighthouse keeper cottages in 1898. With the advance in navigation techniques and equipment, in 1984 it was decommissioned and taken out of service.
Today, the cottages are open to the general public as a visitor centre containing a small museum, gift shop and cafe. A small admission charge allows visitors to climb the 137 steps of the lighthouse and see the lantern room. The steps are very steep as you near the top.
The island is a Local Nature Reserve. An important wildlife habitat for Grey Seals and many Sea and Shore birds.
Grey Seals spend their time out at sea feeding on fish. The rocky northern coast is ideal for the mammals to rest.
In the early part of the 20th century the population dropped to about 500, now it's estimated there are around 120,000 Grey Seals in Great Britain.
To maintain these habitats, reduce disturbance and improve the ecological value, visitors are asked to avoid certain parts of the island.
Seals have very good hearing, but can easily be distressed. The public are requested to keep quiet.
Saint Mary's Island supports a diversity of wildlife. All essential for their survival.
Негізгі бет Saint Mary's Island Lighthouse and Seals Whitley Bay England (March 2023)
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