Community

Souter Lighthouse

The first lighthouse in the world built for electric illumination, opened in 1871. Now managed by the National Trust with a visitor exhibition, tea room, and access to The Leas coastal walk.

Coast Road, Whitburn, SR6 7NH Visit website @nationaltrust Facebook YouTube

About Souter Lighthouse

Souter Lighthouse and The Leas is a National Trust property on the coast near Whitburn, between South Shields and Sunderland. Built in 1871, Souter was the first lighthouse designed to be lit by electricity, a pioneering achievement in its day. Visitors can climb the tower to the lantern room and explore the Foghorn House and exhibitions telling the story of its working life. The site includes a cafe serving hot and cold drinks and light bites. The surrounding Leas offers around two and a half miles of clifftop grassland, wildflower meadows and beaches, with walking trails including a stretch of the England Coast Path.

Featured in These Guides

Blog posts and guides that feature Souter Lighthouse.

Marsden Bay and Marsden Grotto: The Complete Guide

From the dramatic sea stack at Marsden Rock to Europe's only cave pub, here is your complete guide to Marsden Bay, Marsden Grotto, The Leas coastal walk, and the wildlife of the South Shields coast.

Best Beaches in South Shields

From the golden sands of Sandhaven to the dramatic cliffs and seabird colonies at Marsden Bay, here is your complete guide to the beaches of South Shields.

A Weekend in South Shields

A two-day itinerary for visitors to South Shields, from the beaches and seafront to Arbeia Roman Fort, Ocean Road, and the Marsden coastal walk.

Things to Do in South Shields

From the Roman ruins at Arbeia to the beaches of Sandhaven and the theatres at The Customs House, here is your complete guide to things to do in South Shields.

Best Walks from South Shields

Four coastal and park walks from South Shields, from the clifftop path along The Leas to Marsden Bay, to a seafront stroll from Littlehaven to Tynemouth. With distances, terrain notes, and tips for every route.

Free Things to Do in South Shields

Roman ruins, golden beaches, a world-class library, free summer concerts, and more, here are the best free things to do in South Shields.

Summer Holiday Activities in South Shields

From golden beaches and a free funfair to Roman ruins and rainy-day soft play, here is your guide to keeping the family entertained in South Shields this summer.

Best Photography Spots in South Shields

From the iconic Herd Groyne Lighthouse to the seabird colonies at Marsden Rock, here are the best photography spots in South Shields.

Running and Cycling in South Shields

From the weekly parkrun along The Leas to the C2C cycle route finish line, here is your guide to running and cycling in South Shields.

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More Community in South Shields

Arbeia Roman Fort

UNESCO World Heritage Site guarding the main sea route to Hadrian's Wall. Full-scale Roman reconstructions, a museum of significant finds, and free admission from late March to September.

The Customs House

South Tyneside's premier arts venue in a listed building overlooking the River Tyne. Home to a 440-seat theatre, cinema, art gallery, restaurant, and bar.

The Word

National Centre for the Written Word. A striking modern library with interactive digital exhibits, a fabrication lab, performance space, events programme, and a rooftop terrace. Free admission.

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