Seaton Carew lighthouse

Seaton Carew Lighthouse in Hartlepool is a Grade II listed stone tower from the 1830s, now standing beside the water at Jackson's Landing in Hartlepool Marina. It began life as the High Light of a matched pair that steered ships towards the mouth of the River Tees.

What is the story behind it?

In 1838 the Tees Navigation Company, feeling the pressure of the growing docks at West Hartlepool, set out to improve access to the Tees. At Seaton Carew it built two leading lights: a Low Light showing red and a High Light showing a steady white beam. They entered service in 1839. A captain who saw the two lights stacked in line knew the ship was on a safe course into the channel. The High Light is credited to James Johnston, the company's engineer.

The pair went out of use before the end of the 19th century. The Low Light was pulled down around 1900-1902 to widen the road for the seafront tramway. The High Light survived but stood idle, eventually hemmed in by the Bachelor Robertson tin works, which opened in 1916 on what is now the Longhill industrial area.

Why is it in the marina today?

The High Light was listed Grade II in 1985. In 1995 it was passed to Hartlepool Borough Council, and the Teesside Development Corporation moved the structure to its present spot at Jackson's Landing. Sources give its height anywhere from about 19 to 21 metres, so treat any single figure as approximate.

What can you see?

A slim stone column set against yachts and quayside. It is a landmark to admire from outside rather than a lighthouse you can climb. It fits easily into a walk around the marina and the nearby Hartlepool attractions.

How do you get there?

The marina is in central Hartlepool, a short distance from the railway station, with trains from Middlesbrough, Sunderland and (with a change) Newcastle. Drivers will find car parks nearby. The village of Seaton Carew, which gave the lighthouse its name, lies about 3 km south and offers a wide beach and promenade.

When should you go?

The tower stands in the open, so it can be seen year-round. Clear summer days are the most pleasant, and low evening sun brings out the colour of the stone.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go inside? No. It is a historic column viewed from the outside.

Is this the same as Heugh Lighthouse? No. Heugh Lighthouse is a separate structure on the Headland in Hartlepool.

Is it still in Seaton Carew? No. It originally stood inland near Windermere Road and has been in Hartlepool Marina since the 1990s.

Is there an entrance fee? No, it stands in a public space.