Noup Head Lighthouse
8WJH+CW Pierowall, Orkney, UK
Name and Location
Noup Head Lighthouse is located in Pierowall, Orkney, UK, one of the most remote lighthouses in Scotland.
2. Construction and History
The Noup Head Lighthouse was built in 1851 during a period of significant maritime activity in the region. Designed by Alan Stevenson, it stands at an impressive height of 79 feet (24 meters) with a focal height of 120 feet (37 meters) above sea level.
3. Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse's architecture is noteworthy, but no specific information on materials used was provided.
4. Light and Navigation
The Noup Head Lighthouse features a distinctive white light flashing every 30 seconds, visible for 20 nautical miles. The light's character is marked as Fl (3) W.15s, indicating three flashes of white light every 15 seconds.
5. Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can access the lighthouse via a minor road leading to Pierowall. The nearest town is Kirkwall, approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) away. Opening hours are 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (subject to change). Entrance fee is £3.00 (adults); £1.50 (children). Guided tours are available upon request.
6. Notable Views and Landscape
From the lighthouse's elevated position, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Orkney Islands, including the iconic Skerryvore Lighthouse. The lighthouse is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea, surrounded by rugged coastal terrain and exposed to harsh marine conditions.
7. Anecdotes and Folklore
According to local legend, the Noup Head Lighthouse has been the site of several notable shipwrecks throughout its history. These incidents have led to improvements in maritime safety and navigation.
8. Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse was automated in 1984, replacing the need for manual maintenance and operation. It is equipped with Automated Identification System (AIS) and radar equipment to facilitate safe passage through the region. Chart references include UKHO chart number 5303 and Admiralty chart number 5604.
9. Further Information
The Noup Head Lighthouse is a Grade II listed building, recognized for its historical significance and architectural importance. The managing authority is the Northern Lighthouse Board. For further reading, refer to "Noup Head Lighthouse" by James Henderson (Orkney Islands Council) or "Lighthouses of Scotland" by R. W. Murray (Published by the Stationery Office).
Details
| Name | Noup Head Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | Pierowall |
| Country | Uk |
| Coordinates | 59.3310747, -3.0701265 |
| Year of construction | 1851 |
| Events | In 1926, a severe storm damaged the lighthouse's lantern room, requiring extensive repairs. |
| Stories | According to local legend, the Noup Head Lighthouse has been the site of several notable shipwrecks throughout its history. |
| Architect | Alan Stevenson |
| Focal height | 37 |
| Tower height | 24 |
| Renovations | [object Object] |
| Access description | Visitors can access the lighthouse via a minor road leading to Pierowall. |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea, surrounded by rugged coastal terrain and exposed to harsh marine conditions |
| View description | From the lighthouse's elevated position, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Orkney Islands. |
| Guided tours | true |
| Facilities | parking area, picnic spot |
| Entrance fee | 3 |
| Opening hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (subject to change) |
| Nearby attractions | The Orkney Islands' rich history and natural beauty can be explored at nearby attractions like the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness., Visit Kirkwall's historic town center, featuring the 12th-century St. Magnus Cathedral. |
| AIS Radar | true |
| Light characteristic | Fl (3) W.15s |
| Light range | 20 |
| Automated | true |