Sheep's Head Lighthouse

The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is situated at the end of the Sheep's Head peninsula in County Cork, Ireland. The lighthouse is accessible via a well-signposted trail that follows old tracks and roads around the peninsula from Bantry to the headland and back. The trail is part of the 88 km long-distance Sheep's Head Way, which offers stunning views of the coastline and cliffs.

History

The Sheep's Head Lighthouse has been an important aid to navigation for mariners since its construction in 1855. The lighthouse was built by the Commissioners of Irish Lights and has undergone several renovations over the years. In recent times, the lighthouse has been automated, reducing the need for human keepers.

Architecture

The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is a characteristic example of Victorian-era lighthouse design. The tower stands at 83 meters (272 feet) tall, with a focal height of 83 meters. The lighthouse features a distinctive red and white striped pattern, which can be seen from a distance. The light source is a modern LED lamp, which provides a powerful beam out to sea.

Light Characteristics

The Sheep's Head Lighthouse emits two distinct flashes: one red flash every 15 seconds, and one white flash also every 15 seconds. The range of the light is up to 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers) at night. The lighthouse is an important aid to navigation for mariners in the area.

Current Status

The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is currently automated, with no human keepers on site. However, visitors can still access the lighthouse and view its distinctive light source. The lighthouse has also been converted into a museum, offering insights into its history and operation.

Heritage Status

The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is listed as a protected monument in Ireland, recognizing its historical significance as an aid to navigation. The lighthouse is also part of the Sheep's Head Way network of trails, which offers stunning views of the coastline and cliffs.

Notable Historical Events

While there are no specific notable events associated with the Sheep's Head Lighthouse, it has played an important role in the history of maritime navigation in Ireland. The lighthouse was built during a time of significant change in Irish transportation and trade, and its construction marked an important milestone in the development of coastal safety measures.

References

None available

Location and Accessibility

• The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is situated at the end of the Sheep's Head peninsula in County Cork, Ireland.
• The lighthouse is accessible via a well-signposted trail that follows old tracks and roads around the peninsula from Bantry to the headland and back.

History

1. The Sheep's Head Lighthouse has been an important aid to navigation for mariners since its construction in 1855.
2. The lighthouse was built by the Commissioners of Irish Lights and has undergone several renovations over the years.
3. In recent times, the lighthouse has been automated, reducing the need for human keepers.

Architecture

1. The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is a characteristic example of Victorian-era lighthouse design.
2. The tower stands at 83 meters (272 feet) tall, with a focal height of 83 meters.
3. The lighthouse features a distinctive red and white striped pattern, which can be seen from a distance.

Light Characteristics

1. The Sheep's Head Lighthouse emits two distinct flashes: one red flash every 15 seconds, and one white flash also every 15 seconds.
2. The range of the light is up to 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers) at night.

Current Status

1. The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is currently automated, with no human keepers on site.
2. However, visitors can still access the lighthouse and view its distinctive light source.
3. The lighthouse has also been converted into a museum, offering insights into its history and operation.

Heritage Status

1. The Sheep's Head Lighthouse is listed as a protected monument in Ireland, recognizing its historical significance as an aid to navigation.
2. The lighthouse is also part of the Sheep's Head Way network of trails, which offers stunning views of the coastline and cliffs.

Notable Historical Events

1. While there are no specific notable events associated with the Sheep's Head Lighthouse, it has played an important role in the history of maritime navigation in Ireland.
2. The lighthouse was built during a time of significant change in Irish transportation and trade, and its construction marked an important milestone in the development of coastal safety measures.