Sitting along the closing stretch of the 13.1-mile race, Souter Lighthouse and The Leas is the ideal base for a day of coastal exploration.
At two and a half miles from the finish line, you can park in Souter’s car park all day for £10 and National Trust members can park up for free, simply bring along your membership card. All proceeds from parking help us to look after this special place for future generations to enjoy. We’ll be able to develop more homes for wildlife and create new ways for people to experience the coast including improved access, innovative events and sports activities for all.
Make the most of an early start
You can enjoy a pre-run team huddle at Souter Lighthouse’s café. With special opening hours of 6.30am-6pm just for event day, there’s plenty of time to grab a breakfast bacon buttie or a gluten free scone. After all, it’s hungry work being a GNR supporter!
Discover an unexpected history
Built in 1871, Souter was the first lighthouse in the world purpose built to use electricity. A technological marvel of its day, Souter saw 117 years of service. With connections to Lewis Carroll and Grace Darling, as well as its very own lost village, there are plenty of tales to be uncovered.
Do your very own workout
Climb the 76 steps to the top of the lighthouse tower and soak up the views of the North East coastline. There are two and a half miles of magnesian limestone cliffs, wave-cut foreshore and coastal grassland on offer to enjoy. Follow the Souter Saunter walking trail to explore at your own pace, you can download the route here.
Let little legs roam free
There’s plenty of space to run around and play while the grown-ups enjoy a cuppa from the café. We’ll provide some outdoor games to get the fun started.
Get closer to nature
Check out our wildlife garden. Created by a local charity the garden includes ponds, wildflowers, trees, berry bearing shrubs, bog garden, hibernation areas and much more – the perfect haven for wildlife. Or head to Whitburn Coastal Park that sits upon reclaimed colliery land. You’ll find tree planting, a bird observatory, viewing screens and wetland habitats. You might also spot Kittiwakes, Fulmar, Cormorants, Shags and Guillemots on the cliffstacks of Marsden Bay, just a short walk from the lighthouse. Don’t forget to pick up a family activity pack to make the most of your visit.
