Souter Lighthouse Ranger Run
A scenic trail run route around the site of the former Whitburn Colliery, now home to grasslands, wildflowers and a variety of birds. This short but interesting and enjoyable run takes in a full lap of Whitburn Coastal Park Nature Reserve. Local Active Outdoors Development Ranger Stephen Fortune suggests running it in both directions – you’ll be surprised how much more you see.
What makes Whitburn Coastal Park special?
This route has been created in collaboration with expert trail runners and adventurers Jen and Sim Benson, as part of our Ranger Run Series. A major coal mine dominated this area from the 1870’s until it closed in 1968 leaving behind a derelict, industrialised landscape. In 1992 regeneration of the area began, and the transformation over the years since is incredible to see. The area is now rich in wildlife and the new manmade sand martin colony building in neighbouring Whitburn Point Local Nature Reserve at the southern end of the loop is a particular success story. In the summer months there’s a wonderful abundance of wildflowers here too: look out for various species of wild orchid growing in the meadows. If you’re after a longer run, the coast path is a great run in either direction.
Map
Start:
Souter Lighthouse car park NZ 407640
1
Leave the car park and pass the lighthouse on a track towards the sea. Trend slightly left to join the coast path at Lizard Point.
Did you know?
Opened in 1871, Souter was the world’s first lighthouse purpose built to be powered by electricity. Look out for the Foghorn House at the end of the white walled field. During its working life, when visibility fell below two miles and the lights of the Tyne and Wear could not be seen, the horn gave a four second blast at 45 second intervals. Nowadays you might hear the foghorn being given a blast for old time’s sake, usually on a Sunday. Please check for warning signage and be aware if you are out running nearby, it’s extremely loud!
2
Turn right onto the coast path and follow it south along the edge of Whitburn Coastal Park to a path junction at its southern end. Fork right here and run past the southern car park.
Keep your eyes peeled.
Magnesian limestone rocks form cliffs, stacks, arches and bays where fulmar, cormorants, shags, razorbills and guillemots can be spotted. On a very calm day you might even be lucky enough to glimpse a porpoise or dolphin swimming by.
3
Follow the track around the southern end of the coastal park and up the western edge back to the start. We highly recommend turning around and also running this route in reverse; you’ll be surprised how much more you see running in the opposite direction.
Caring for nature.
National Trust rangers work closely with the Whitburn Coastal Conservation Group to ensure that the coastal park is a haven for wildlife. The neighbouring Nature Reserve is designated a human-free zone, except by special arrangement, in order to give nature space to thrive undisturbed. It incorporates ponds, wetland areas and a manmade sand martin nest bank. On your way back towards the lighthouse you’ll pass bird hides, where visitors can enjoy watching the coastal park’s feathered residents including rare tree sparrows.
End:
Souter Lighthouse car park NZ 407640
