Logo

lighthouse-index

Loop Head Lighthouse

Loop Head Lighthouse, Kilbaha South, Co. Clare, Ireland

Name and Location

The Loop Head Lighthouse is located in Kilbaha South, County Clare, Ireland.

Construction and History

The Loop Head Lighthouse was constructed in 1879 during the Victorian era. It has a rich history of guiding mariners for centuries.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at an impressive 84 feet (25.6 meters) tall, with a characteristic mansard roof shape. Its unique architectural style reflects the era's industrial and technological advancements.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's light is characterized by a distinctive Fl(3)W.15s pattern, which has been in operation since its construction. With a range of 23 nautical miles (42 kilometers), this light plays a crucial role in guiding vessels safely through the treacherous waters surrounding Loop Head.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Guided tours are available during certain times of the year, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the lighthouse's history and operation.

Notable Views and Landscape

The area is also home to various marine life, including seals and seabirds. The lighthouse is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by rugged cliffs and scenic coastal views.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The Loop Head Lighthouse has been associated with local folklore and stories of shipwrecks and heroic rescue efforts. These tales add to the lighthouse's mystique and cultural significance.

Technical and Operational Details

The Loop Head Lighthouse is an automated lighthouse, with no longer requiring manual maintenance or operation. This automation has allowed for increased efficiency and reduced risks associated with human error.

Further Information

For those interested in learning more about the Loop Head Lighthouse, several publications and online resources are available: Commissioners of Irish Lights, Wikipedia, Maritime Museum of Ireland. The lighthouse is managed by the Commissioners of Irish Lights, an organization dedicated to ensuring maritime safety and promoting awareness of lighthouses throughout Ireland.

Details

NameLoop Head Lighthouse
CityKilbaha South
CountryIreland
Coordinates52.5608919, -9.9321803
Year of construction1879
Eventsshipwrecks and heroic rescue efforts
Historic significancemaritime safety
Storieslocal folklore and stories of shipwrecks and heroic rescue efforts
Architectural stylemansard roof shape
Focal height42
Tower height25.6
Heritage statustrue
Access descriptionVisitors can access the lighthouse grounds, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Guided tours are available during certain times of the year.
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coast
View descriptionscenic coastal views, rugged cliffs, and marine life
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Light characteristic"Fl(3)W.15s"
Light range23
Automatedtrue