St Mary’s Lighthouse

The lighthouse stands on a tidal island just off Whitley Bay, accessible by a stone causeway that vanishes under water twice a day. It's a proper striking sight - a white-painted tower with a red top, surrounded by the sort of rocky outcrops that make photographers go a bit mental at golden hour.

You can walk out to it when the tide's low, which takes about ten minutes from the main beach. The climb inside the tower itself isn't for the unfit - it's narrow, steep, and a bit claustrophobic if you're not keen on tight spiral staircases. But the view from the top across the coast towards Tynemouth and down to Hartley is genuinely worth the huff and puff. On a clear day you can see for miles. The whole experience takes about an hour if you're not rushing.

Historically it's been working since 1898, though these days it's automated. History buffs will appreciate that, but honestly the main draw is the walk itself and those views. Kids find it interesting for a bit, though there's not much to actually do once you're up there - it's not a place to linger for hours.

If you're staying at either Parkdean Resorts or the Old Hartley Caravan Club site nearby, both less than a mile away, this makes an excellent morning outing. Time your visit for low tide, bring a camera, and wear proper shoes - those rocks are slippery.