South Shields Groyne Pier & Lighthouse

About:

The South Shields Groyne Pier and its iconic Herd Groyne Lighthouse form a distinctive maritime landmark at the mouth of the River Tyne. Constructed between 1861 and 1867, the pier was designed to protect Littlehaven Beach—formerly known as Herd Sands—from erosion caused by shifting currents following the development of the nearby piers

At the pier’s end stands the Herd Groyne Lighthouse, a 13-metre-tall, hexagonal structure built in 1882. Its unique design, featuring a red-painted wooden and corrugated iron exterior supported by twelve steel legs, gives it a distinctive appearance reminiscent of a 1940s sci-fi spacecraft . The lighthouse remains operational, guiding vessels safely into the Tyne with its sector light that changes colour—white, red, or green—depending on the ship’s position.

In 2024, the lighthouse underwent a significant £250,000 restoration, supported by a £100,000 donation from the Barbour Foundation. The restoration included structural repairs, cleaning, and repainting, ensuring the lighthouse’s continued role as a navigational aid and preserving its status as a symbol of the region’s maritime heritage.

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding area offers picturesque views and is a popular spot for photography. Nearby, visitors can also explore the “Conversation Piece” art installation by Spanish sculptor Juan Muñoz, adding a cultural dimension to the scenic coastal experience .