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Souter Lighthouse and The Leas and its collection

Souter Lighthouse and The Leas
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Souter Lighthouse, located in the village of Marsden in South Shields, England, holds a significant place in the history of lighthouse technology. It was the first lighthouse in the world that was specifically designed and built to use alternating electric current, which was the most advanced lighthouse technology of its time. This technological innovation made it a crucial aid for maritime navigation, especially given the number of shipwrecks on the dangerous Whitburn Steel reefs in the surrounding area.

Souter Lighthouse Today

Today, Souter Lighthouse is protected as a Grade II* listed building in the United Kingdom, a designation that recognizes its special architectural and historic interest. The lighthouse is owned by the National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty, an organization dedicated to preserving and providing access to places of historic interest and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the engine room, the tower and its lantern, and the keeper's quarters.

Accommodation at Souter Lighthouse

For those looking for a unique accommodation experience, two of the former lighthouse keepers' cottages at Souter Lighthouse are available as holiday rentals through the National Trust. Staying in these cottages offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the history and natural beauty of the area.

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FRPhare de Souter
ENSouter Lighthouse and The Leas - National Trust

Science & Technology Science & Technology Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Historic house Industrial heritage Maritime

#1 Science & Technology in Sunderland #1 Historic houses in Sunderland #1 Industrial & heritage museums in Sunderland #142 Nature & Natural History in England #121 Science & Technology in England #100 Industrial & heritage museums in England #36 Maritime museums in England #161 Nature & Natural History in United Kingdom #138 Science & Technology in United Kingdom #119 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #42 Maritime museums in United Kingdom #128 Maritime museums in Europe

#1 Science & Technology in Sunderland #1 Historic houses in Sunderland #1 Industrial & heritage museums in Sunderland #142 Nature & Natural History in England #121 Science & Technology in England #100 Industrial & heritage museums in England #36 Maritime museums in England #161 Nature & Natural History in United Kingdom #138 Science & Technology in United Kingdom #119 Industrial & heritage museums in United Kingdom #42 Maritime museums in United Kingdom #128 Maritime museums in Europe

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Souter Lighthouse and The Leas
Coast Road
Whitburn
SR6 7NH Sunderland

Images of Souter Lighthouse and The Leas

Visitor information Souter Lighthouse and The Leas

Opening hours

Monday
11:00 – 17:00
Tuesday
11:00 – 17:00
Wednesday
11:00 – 17:00
Thursday
11:00 – 17:00
Friday
11:00 – 17:00
Saturday
11:00 – 17:00
Sunday
11:00 – 17:00
More opening hours

Admission

0 – 4Free
5 – 17£3.25
18+£6.50
Family (1 Adult and up to 3 children)£9.75
Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children)£16.25
Group (Adult 18+)£6.18
Group (Child 5-17)£3.09
More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Museum shop
Restaurant

Location & Map

Coast Road, Sunderland

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Souter Lighthouse and The Leas have been found.

Souter Lighthouse and The Leas Reviews

Souter Lighthouse and The Leas has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Souter Lighthouse and The Leas offers visitors a glimpse into maritime history and coastal beauty. The lighthouse, which was the first to use alternating electric current, provides an interesting look at technological advancements in coastal safety. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline. The surrounding area, The Leas, offers pleasant walks along the cliff tops with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

    The site receives positive feedback for its educational value, particularly for families and history enthusiasts. The volunteer staff are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Many visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

    However, some visitors note that the experience can be weather-dependent, with windy conditions sometimes affecting outdoor enjoyment. A few reviewers mention that the exhibits could benefit from updates or more interactive elements. Accessibility might be an issue for some, as climbing the lighthouse involves steep steps.

    Overall, Souter Lighthouse and The Leas provides a good blend of history, nature, and coastal views, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in lighthouses or looking for a scenic day out.

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