Souter Lighthouse
The lighthouse started operating in 1871 and was, at the time the most advanced in the world and is now a National Trust Property. Pupils can explore the lighthouse, starting in the Engine Room and learn about how lighthouses work through video, displays and a variety of navigational equipment. Only 2 miles south of South Shields, Souter Lighthouse overlooks the cliffs of Marsden Bay, high above the rocks and notorious currents of the 'Whitburn Steel' that have wrecked dozens of ships and claimed the lives of many mariners. See the cramped living quarters and climb the seventy six steps to the top of the tower to enjoy wide views of the coastline, from the mouth of the Tyne to the Tees. Pupils can enjoy the same view without leaving the ground floor by operating the remote controlled CCTV.

After enjoying refreshments in Souter's own tea-room, pupils can walk the cliff top paths along The Leas, see the changing moods of the seascape below, and watch the seabirds on the cliffs and around the great sea-stack of Marsden Rock.

Address: Coast Road, Whitburn, SR6 7NH
Contact: Alex Thirlaway, Education Officer
Telephone: 0191 5293161
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
E-mail: nslhse@smtp.ntrust.org.uk

Average length of visit: Half day to full day
Ideal pupil to staff ratio: 10:1
Minimum group number: n/a
Maximum group number: 35
Educational Group rate: £1.00 per pupil
Opening times: Half term week in February
March to November 11.00am - 5.00pm, last entry 4.30pm
Closed Fridays except Good Fridays
Disabled Access: Wheelchair access to ground floor, braille guide and tactile exhibits, accessible toilet, CCTV enables those unable to climb the tower to see the view from the top.

Educational Content

Facilities and Provisions for Groups:
Activity / work sheets
Clip boards / pencils
Coach Parking (Free of charge)
Education Officer / service
Education / study room
Interpretation on site
Handling collections
Refreshment area (outside)
Lunchroom (inside)
Shop
Teacher / Pupil packs
Toilets
Welcome talk / guided tour

Other Information for Groups
The education room school base is for single class groups and can only hold a maximum of 30 children for lunch or activities.

Souter can accept two classes during the summer, but mainly for outside work and a lighthouse tour.

Schools can visit on open days before the property opens to the public, but booking is essential.