Souter Lighthouse overlooks the cliffs of Marsden Bay, high above the rocks and notorious currents of the 'Whitburn Steel' that have wrecked dozens of ships and claimed the lives of many mariners. Originally the intention was to build the lighthouse on Souter Point which is mid way between the rivers Tyne and Wear, but it was then decided it would be more visible from Lizard Point, a mile further north. It retained the name, Souter lighthouse, as there was already in existence a Lizard Point lighthouse in Cornwall. Souter lighthouse was built in 1871 but much of what you see in the building today dates from the 1950's when the main engines where installed. Although the lighthouse is now under the ownership of The National Trust it is still in working order. Ghost tales here are many and include a Poltergieist infestation in the Kitchens area and the spectre of a past Lighthouse Keeper who roams the corridors and has even been seen walking through a wall.