Scotland’s lighthouses stand as sentinels on some of the most dramatic coastlines in the world. From remote sea stacks lashed by Atlantic storms to the entrance of bustling harbours, these iconic towers have safeguarded mariners for centuries. Designed to withstand brutal weather and treacherous waters, they are feats of engineering as much as symbols of hope and safety.
Many were masterminded by the famous Stevenson family of engineers, whose legacy still shines brightly along Scotland’s shores.
Today, while most are automated, Scotland’s lighthouses remain powerful reminders of the country’s maritime heritage. Whether perched on wild headlands or standing alone on rocky islets, each has a story of storms weathered, lives saved, and a constant vigil over the sea.
Ardnamurchan Lighthouse – Ardnamurchan Point – the most westerly point of the British Mainland.
Bell Rock Lighthouse – This site commemorates probably Scotland’s most extraordinary single engineering feat of the early 19th century; its creator and builder, Robert Stevenson; the workers and seamen who were engaged on its construction; and John Rennie, who was appointed Chief Engineer to the project.
Scotland’s most spectacular lighthouses – article by Sean Murphy, Daily Record – 10 September 2020.
Stay in a Scottish Lighthouse
Rua Reidh Lighthouse – Melvaig, Gairloch, Wester Ross IV21 2EA
At Rua Reidh Lighthouse, you will find a terrace. Other facilities offered at the property include a shared lounge and a dining area in the conservatory. Featuring a bath or shower, the en-suite bathrooms also come with a hairdryer. You can enjoy a sea view from every room. Inverness Airport is 85 miles away.
Lighthouse Governing Bodies
- Northern Lighthouse Board – delivering a reliable, efficient and cost-effective Aids to Navigation service for the benefit and safety of all Mariners.
- Trinity House – The Lighthouse Authority for England, Wales, the Channel Islands & Gibraltar
- The Commissioners of Irish Lights
Scottish Lighthouse Museums
- Museum of Scottish Lighthouses – Fraserburgh
- Signal Tower Museum – Arbroath
Lighthouses in England
- The Old Lighthouse – Dungeness, Kent
- Happisburgh Lighthouse – East Anglia
Lighthouse Societies
- Association of Lighthouse Keepers – a forum for everyone interested in lighthouses, lightships and aids to navigation.
- British Amateur Radio Lighthouse Society
- Lighthouses of Australia Inc
- Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association
- The Nova Scotia Lighthouse Preservation Society
- United States Lighthouse Society
- The World Lighthouse Society
Lighthouse Videos
In 1998, the last lightkeeper left Fair Isle, the only staffed lighthouse left in Scotland.
This video shows what life was like for lighthouse keepers stationed around Scotland.