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Uiginish Point Lighthouse

C9WQ+VX Uiginish, Isle of Skye, UK

Name and Location

The Uiginish Point Lighthouse is located in the picturesque village of Uiginish on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK.

Construction and History

The lighthouse was constructed in 1857 during the Victorian era to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships traversing the Isle of Skye's rugged coastline. It was designed by renowned architect Alexander Stevenson.

Architecture and Materials

The structure features a characteristic Scottish lighthouse style, with a cylindrical tower and a conical roof.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse is equipped with a green flashing light, characterized by a period of 3 seconds and a range of 7 miles. This unique beacon serves as a visual aid for mariners, providing crucial guidance through the darkness of night or in low-visibility conditions.

Accessibility and Visiting

Due to its private residential status, visitors can only access the lighthouse by prior arrangement with the owners. However, the surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and cultural attractions, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.

Notable Views and Landscape

Anecdotes and Folklore

The Uiginish Point Lighthouse has its own unique stories and legends, including tales of shipwrecks and notable visits from notable sailors. These stories are passed down through generations of local residents and provide a glimpse into the area's rich maritime history.

Technical and Operational Details

Standing at an impressive height of 21 meters (69 feet), the Uiginish Point Lighthouse boasts a focal height of 17 meters (56 feet) above sea level. Although no longer functioning as a navigation aid, the lighthouse may have been equipped with AIS (Automatic Identification System) or radar technology at some point in its history.

Further Information

The Uiginish Point Lighthouse is listed as a Category B Listed Building, recognizing its cultural and architectural importance. For those interested in learning more about the lighthouse, several references are available: Historic Environment Scotland and Isle of Skye Heritage.

Details

NameUiginish Point Lighthouse
CityUiginish
CountryScotland, Uk
Coordinates57.4471759, -6.6100266
Year of construction1857
Eventsshipwrecks; rescues
Storiesshipwrecks; notable visits from notable sailors
Architectural styleScottish lighthouse style
ArchitectAlexander Stevenson
Focal height17
Tower height21
Renovationsconverted into a private residence
Landscape typerugged outcrop overlooking the sea, rolling hills, and lush greenery
View descriptionpanoramic view of the Minch Strait, Cuillin Hills, and surrounding coastal landscape
Guided toursfalse
Nearby attractions["Skye Bridge","hiking trails"]
Light characteristic{"color":"green","pattern":"Fl(3)W.15s","range":7}
Automatedfalse