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South Foreland Lower Lighthouse

49RG+9C Dover, UK

Name and Location

The South Foreland Lower Lighthouse is located in Dover, Kent, United Kingdom.

Construction and History

The South Foreland Lower Lighthouse was built in 1843 and served as an important aid to navigation for mariners until its decommissioning in 1904. It marked a significant milestone in maritime history, reducing the risk of shipwrecks and improving navigational safety in the region.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at 15 meters tall (49 feet) with a distinctive black-and-white striped tower. Its design reflects architectural styles of the time, blending Victorian Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival elements. The lower section features a square base, while the upper portion tapers to a narrower, octagonal shape.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse was first lit in 1843, marking the beginning of its 61-year operational period. It was maintained by Trinity House, responsible for the upkeep and management of lighthouses along the English coast.

Accessibility and Visiting

Today, the South Foreland Lower Lighthouse is privately owned and serves as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the lighthouse's interior, which features an impressive spiral staircase and stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the English Channel.

Anecdotes and Folklore

There are no notable anecdotes or folklore associated with this lighthouse.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1904 due to advances in navigational technology and the construction of more modern beacons. It remains an important part of Dover's maritime heritage, serving as a testament to the region's rich history and significance in global shipping.

Further Information

wikidata: Q26323604

Details

NameSouth Foreland Lower Lighthouse
CityDover
CountryUnited Kingdom
Coordinates51.1409607, 1.3760526
Year of construction1843
Historic significanceone of the earliest lighthouses on the English Channel
Storieshelped to reduce the risk of shipwrecks and improve navigational safety in the region
Architectural styleVictorian Gothic Revival, Renaissance Revival
Tower height15
Accessibletrue
View descriptionstunning views of the surrounding coastline
Guided toursfalse
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Automatedfalse