Amble South Pier Lighthouse

Amble Lighthouse stands on the south pier at the entrance to Amble Harbour. The harbour at Amble was built between 1838 and 49 by John Rennie at the mouth of the River Coquet.

Amble’s harbour was originally a natural tidal inlet, providing a haven for small fishing boats and local traders. The hamlet developed as a fishing port following improvements by the Warkworth Harbour Commission. The newly improved port became known as Warkworth Harbour, named after the town located a little further up the river.

Two breakwaters were built using local stone, but were later replaced with Scottish granite. The north breakwater was the longest.

In 1849, the branch line of the York, Newcastle and Berwick Railway was opened, and coal staithes were built at Amble. The harbour began to gain importance as coal mining in the region expanded. Coal from the inland mines of Northumberland and Durham needed to be transported to the coast, and Amble became a key port for coal exports. Barges and small ships used the harbour to reach larger vessels offshore.

The construction of Coquet Lighthouse in 1841 complemented these improvements, providing a safe navigational point for vessels entering and leaving the harbour.

The northern pier became known as Warkworth breakwater, and the south pier is known as Amble breakwater. Both piers have a lighthouse at the end, built in 1848.

Amble South Pier Lighthouse has a 28ft tall cast-iron light with red and white bands. The North Pier had a 26ft high iron lattice tower, operated by solar power. This was later replaced by a green post.

In 1987, Amble Marina was opened, and the following year, a new fish dock was constructed. Amble has had a Lifeboat stationed here since 1842, when Coquet Lighthouse was built, due to the hazards along this stretch of coastline.

In 2000, Amble South Pier was refurbished and officially reopened by football legend Jack Charlton on 21st May. Terry Broughton was responsible for bringing about the work, and a plaque was put near the pier to commemorate his work.

However, in 2008, part of the harbour wall collapsed due to massive flooding, and it was finally repaired in 2013. [

The harbour is operated by Warkworth Harbour Commissioners, whose purpose-built office is located on the quayside.

The harbour is a hub for sailing, boating, and wildlife tours, especially trips to see Coquet Island and its lighthouse, as well as the large seabird colonies.

The harbour and nearby Coquet Island are essential for wildlife, particularly seabirds, and conservation efforts ensure a balance between human activity and nature. Amble Harbour is accessible via a short circular walk where the River Coquet meets the sea.

Nearby Warkworth Castle is impressive and worth a visit if you have the time.