St Mary’s Lighthouse has been ranked the number one lighthouse in England by TripAdvisor.
With a near-perfect 4.5 score from thousands of travellers, the historic landmark stands as the nation's favourite coastal beacon.
The accolade comes after a major £900,000 restoration was completed in 2024, aiming to secure the future of the Grade II listed structure and enhance the visitor experience.
Alongside vital structural repairs, a refreshed visitor centre now offers interactive new ways to explore the island’s unique maritime story and diverse wildlife.
The recent upgrades have received widespread acclaim from the public. One visitor described the landmark as "my favourite place on earth," while others praised the incredible wildlife encounters, noting: "Seeing seals in their natural habitat was incredible."
To safeguard this visitor experience, further funding has already been identified to replace the ageing 900ft causeway and ensure safe, long-term access for future generations. Subject to approvals, these works are proposed to start in summer 2027.
Councillor Carl Johnson, North Tyneside’s Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “Seeing St Mary’s Lighthouse named the best in England is a fantastic achievement for North Tyneside.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our teams, volunteers, and local wildlife conservation groups who ensured our ambitious restoration was delivered with the utmost care for the island’s unique ecosystem.
“We are incredibly proud of our coastal heritage. By continuing to invest in iconic landmarks like St Mary’s, we are ensuring our coast remains a premier destination for residents and visitors alike.”