Name and Location

St Nicholas's Chapel is a historic chapel and former lighthouse located in Ilfracombe, Devon, United Kingdom.

Construction and History

The chapel was built in 1438 by Sir Richard Pembrugge, Lord of the Manor, as a private chapel for his family. In 1570, it was converted into a beacon tower to serve as a navigational aid for ships entering Ilfracombe Harbour. The lighthouse's primary function was to emit a green light, which could be seen from up to six nautical miles away.

Architecture and Materials

The chapel's architecture is a testament to its rich history. The building features a simple yet elegant design, with a rectangular shape and a steeply pitched roof. The original stone structure has been well-preserved over the centuries, with some alterations made in the 19th century.

Light and Navigation

As a lighthouse, St Nicholas's Chapel played a crucial role in guiding ships safely into Ilfracombe Harbour. The chapel's light was characterized as Fl (fixed red) and had a height of approximately 39 feet (12 meters). The beam period lasted for five seconds, with a range of six nautical miles.

Accessibility and Visiting

Although no longer functioning as an active lighthouse, St Nicholas's Chapel remains an important part of Ilfracombe's maritime heritage. Today, the chapel is used as a place of worship and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the chapel's historic interior, which features a beautiful stained-glass window and intricate stone carvings.

Notable Views and Landscape

No information available for this section.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No stories or anecdotes are available about St Nicholas's Chapel.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse's original purpose was to emit a green light, characterized as Fl (fixed red) with a height of approximately 39 feet (12 meters), beam period lasting for five seconds, and range of six nautical miles. The primary function was to guide ships safely into Ilfracombe Harbour.

Further Information

• * US NGA Pub. 114 (2011-05-26)