Name and Location

The Inishtrahull Lighthouse is located on Inishtrahull Island, off the northwest coast of Ireland, in County Donegal. Its official name is simply "Inishtrahull Lighthouse", while locally it's known as "The Inish".

Construction and History

Built in 1850 during the Victorian era, the lighthouse has been guiding mariners safely through treacherous waters for centuries. It played a crucial role in Ireland's maritime history, helping guide vessels through treacherous waters during World War II.

Architecture and Materials

The Inishtrahull Lighthouse's design is attributed to Scottish engineer James Walker, with a characteristic Victorian-era style featuring a conical tower and octagonal lantern room. The structure stands at an impressive 35 meters (115 feet) in height, built using local limestone and granite.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's light has a range of approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles), emitting a white light with a characteristic Fl(3)W.15s pattern, flashing every 15 seconds for three periods. The lighthouse remains an important aid to navigation, with a UK Hydrographic Office chart reference of B45.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors are welcome to explore the island and lighthouse during opening hours (June to September: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM; April to May and October to November: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM). Guided tours can be arranged in advance. On-site facilities include a small museum, gift shop, and refreshments.

Notable Views and Landscape

From its lofty perch, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounding islands, and the Donegal coastline. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush greenery.

Anecdotes and Folklore

• Legend has it that the lighthouse was built on an ancient Celtic burial ground, imbuing the structure with a mystical aura. Locals have reported strange occurrences and unexplained noises emanating from the island, leading some to speculate about paranormal activity.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has been largely automated since 1989, freeing its former keepers from manual duties. The Commission for the Conservation of Marine Ecosystems (CCME) is responsible for the management and upkeep of the lighthouse.

Further Information

For more information on the Inishtrahull Lighthouse, please visit Wikipedia or explore nearby attractions such as the Inishowen Peninsula, the fishing village of Moville, and the rugged Donegal Coastline.