Name and Location

Smeaton's Tower is a Grade I listed lighthouse located at Hoe Road, Plymouth PL1 2JU, UK.

Construction and History

Commissioned by Trinity House, Smeaton's Tower was designed by engineer John Smeaton to replace the original Eddystone Lighthouse. Construction began in 1759 and took several years to complete, finally being lit in 1768. It served as a vital aid to navigation for over 150 years before being decommissioned in 1909.

Architecture and Materials

Smeaton's Tower stands at an impressive height of 22 meters (72 feet) with an octagonal shape and striking architecture. The tower is constructed from local granite, featuring a distinctive spiral staircase that wraps around its central pillar.

Light and Navigation

Originally lit by a series of oil lamps until 1877, when it was converted to use gas lighting. Its original function was to guide mariners into Plymouth Sound, serving as a vital aid to navigation for over 150 years.

Accessibility and Visiting

Today, Smeaton's Tower stands as a testament to Plymouth's rich maritime heritage and is open to the public as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the tower's interior, including its spiral staircase, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Notable Views and Landscape

Panoramic views of the surrounding area are available from the top of the tower.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The lighthouse was originally intended to be 50 meters (164 feet) tall, but due to engineering difficulties, it was reduced to its current height. The tower has been the subject of several restoration projects over the years, including a major refurbishment in the 1990s.

Technical and Operational Details

Smeaton's Tower is a disused lighthouse, decommissioned in 1909.

Further Information

• References:
• 1. "Smeaton's Tower." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 2 Feb. 2023, <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smeaton%27s_Tower>.
• 2. "Smeaton's Tower." English Heritage, <https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/smeatons-tower/>.
• 3. "Plymouth Lighthouses." Trinity House, <https://www.trinityhouse.co.uk/about-us/history-of-trinity-house/plymouth-lighthouses/>.