Dungeness Lighthouse
WX7G+99 Romney Marsh, UK
Name and Location
The Dungeness Lighthouse is a prominent landmark situated on the southeastern coast of England, specifically in the parish of Lydd within the Folkestone & Hythe District of Kent.
Construction and History
The lighthouse was constructed between 1900 and 1904 by Trinity House, an ancient organization responsible for maritime navigation and safety in England, Wales, Jersey, and Guernsey. The current structure is the fourth to stand on this site, with previous towers being replaced due to erosion or damage.
Architecture and Materials
The tower stands at a height of 43 meters (141 feet), with a focal plane elevation of 40 meters (131 feet). Its characteristic white light flashes every 10 seconds, visible for approximately 21 nautical miles (39 kilometers).
Light and Navigation
Although automation replaced manual operation in the mid-20th century, the Dungeness Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation. The original fog signal horn has been replaced with a modern electronic system.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can access the lighthouse's surrounding area, but entrance inside the structure itself is not permitted. However, the nearby Dungeness Nature Reserve offers guided tours and stunning views of the coastline.
Notable Views and Landscape
The surrounding area provides breathtaking views of the coastline and the English Channel. The Dungeness Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Anecdotes and Folklore
The Dungeness Lighthouse has been a key feature of local folklore, with stories surrounding its construction, operation, and notable events. One such story involves the lighthouse's role in guiding ships during World War II.
Technical and Operational Details
- Mariners can refer to the following nautical charts for navigation purposes: UKHO 2016 edition chart 1395 or Admiralty chart 2453.
Further Information
For more information on the Dungeness Lighthouse or Trinity House, please consult:
- "Dungeness Lighthouse" on Wikipedia
- Trinity House website
Details
| Name | Dungeness Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | Lydd |
| Country | Uk |
| Coordinates | 50.9134441, 0.97594 |
| Year of construction | 1904 |
| Events | shipwrecks or rescues |
| Historic significance | over a century as a beacon for mariners and a symbol of safety |
| Stories | role in guiding ships during World War II |
| Architect | Trinity House |
| Focal height | 40 |
| Tower height | 43 |
| Renovations | automation replaced manual operation in the mid-20th century |
| Access description | Visitors can access the lighthouse's surrounding area |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | rocky coast |
| View description | stunning views of the coastline |
| Guided tours | true |
| Facilities | toilets, cafe, gift shop |
| Nearby attractions | ["Dungeness Nature Reserve"] |
| AIS Radar | true |
| Light characteristic | "white light flashes every 10 seconds" |
| Light range | 21 |
| Automated | true |