Name and Location

The Cloghy Beacon Lighthouse is located at 9F44+P7 Downpatrick, UK, situated on the coast of Northern Ireland.

Construction and History

The Cloghy Beacon was constructed in 1886 during the Victorian era to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships traveling along the eastern coast of Northern Ireland. The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 35 meters (115 feet) and has a focal height of 40 meters (131 feet).

Architecture and Materials

Designed by renowned architect Sir Frederick Burton, the Cloghy Beacon is a striking example of Victorian-era architecture, featuring a distinctive red brick and granite structure. The lighthouse's octagonal tower rises from a square base, topped with a lantern room housing the original first-order optic lens.

Light and Navigation

The Cloghy Beacon originally displayed a fixed white light at an elevation of 40 meters (131 feet). However, in 1971, the lighthouse was automated, and its light characteristics were changed to Fl(3)W.15s, meaning it emits a flashing white light every 15 seconds.

Accessibility and Visiting

While the Cloghy Beacon is no longer an active aid to navigation, it has been converted into a heritage site and is managed by the National Trust for Northern Ireland. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby coastal path, offering breathtaking views of the Irish Sea.

Notable Views and Landscape

The Cloghy Beacon is situated within the Downpatrick Coastal Path, a scenic walking trail that spans over 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) along the eastern coast of Northern Ireland.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Technical and Operational Details

• Latitude: 54.3568146
• Longitude: -5.5442842

Further Information

• * National Trust for Northern Ireland: Cloghy Beacon
• * Historic Environment Scotland: Cloghy Beacon