Welcome to St Mary's Island, Whitley Bay - The island is reached between the tides via a short causeway from the car park, and has all the fascination of a miniature, part-time island. The lighthouse, completed in 1898 on a hazardous coast for shipping, remained operational until 1984. Visitors can climb the 137 steps inside the tower to the lantern room to enjoy spectacular views along the North East coast of England. If you cannot manage the steps, a live video facility allows you to experience the same panorama at ground level