Souter Lighthouse

Souter Lighthouse and The Leas is a National Trust property on the North East coastline which is a great day out for those seeking fresh air, tranquility and a chance to spot the wildlife which calls the coast its home.

Opened in 1871, Souter was the first lighthouse in the world designed and built to be powered by electricity. The Engine Room, the heart of Souter, once provided power for the whole station and the operation of the foghorn. Today, Keeper’s Cottage recreates the living quarters of a lighthouse keeper and his family, while two further cottages have been converted into holiday accommodation which can be booked year-round. Visitors venturing to the top of the tower are rewarded by sweeping coastal views and a close encounter with the huge lamp which floats on 1.5 tonnes of mercury.

Further afield, explore the vibrant city of Newcastle, just a 15 mile drive from the cottage. With its shops, museums, galleries and award-winning restaurants, its well worth a visit.

Outdoors, the Foghorn Field provides space to picnic and play. To the north of the lighthouse, The Leas is a two and a half mile stretch of magnesian limestone cliffs and rock stacks alive with seabirds, overlooked by wildflower-rich coastal grassland. To the south is Whitburn Coastal Park and Nature Reserve – reclaimed colliery land, now a haven for wildlife. The England Coast Path follows the coastline and connects with a wider network of paths and access to several beaches, including Marsden Bay.

A programme of nature, history, walking, sports and family friendly events offers yet more ways to enjoy and get to know the coast.

Visitors can browse a second-hand bookshop in the lighthouse admissions area. The Lighthouse Cafe offers hot and cold drinks, cakes, bakes and light lunches to eat in or take away. For a quick snack on the go, a kiosk on The Leas provides drinks, ice-cream, crisps and confectionery (open seasonally).

Please visit the National Trust website to check opening times before travelling and for lighthouse admission prices and car park charges (free to National Trust members). Entry to outdoor areas, the cafe and second-hand bookshop is free.