The Leas

Follow the beach path from Sandhaven up to the start of the coastal path and be prepared for what has to be arguably some of the most spectacular coastal views in the North East. This is a place to get away from it all.

Enjoy some sea air, with amazing views

The beautiful and tranquil Leas is a two mile coastal route and a perfect place to walk along 250 million year old towering cliffs.

There is plenty of green space for cycling, walking, running, kite flying and dog walking.

There's a series of coastal paths which twist and turn giving you access to bays, caves, coves and bird watching all the way to Marsden Bay, Souter Lighthouse and beyond. 

The start of the coastal paths is marked with a World War II gun at Trow Rocks, which is still in position ready to defend the coast and protect ships from enemies.

Well known sights

These paths lead to Souter Lighthouse which was opened in 1871 and remains to this day an iconic beacon. Hooped in red and white, it was the first lighthouse in the world to be built to be lit by electric.

Now a National Trust run property, visitors can explore the engine room and machinery and also climb those tower steps. You'll be in for a breathtaking treat at the end!

The Leas is also of course famous for being the finish line for the world famous Great North Run, a welcome sight for the thousands of runners that take part every Autumn.