Beachy Head Lighthouse

The Beachy Head Lighthouse is situated on the iconic chalk headland of Beachy Head, located in East Sussex, England.

History

• The lighthouse has a rich history dating back to 1902, when it was commissioned by Trinity House, a charitable organization responsible for the maintenance and operation of over 200 historic lighthouses across the UK.

Architecture

The Beachy Head Lighthouse is an iconic structure that stands at a height of 43 meters (141 feet) above sea level. The tower's design is characteristic of the LB&SCR H2 class 4-4-2 steam locomotive era, with a distinctive octagonal shape and a prominent lantern room at its summit.

The lighthouse is constructed from Portland stone and features a striking white light that can be seen for up to 20 nautical miles.

Light Characteristics

• Pattern: Fl (flash)
• Range: 20 nautical miles
• Colour: White

Current Status

The Beachy Head Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has undergone significant upgrades and modernization in recent years.

The lighthouse remains a vital component of the UK's maritime safety infrastructure.

Location and Accessibility

Beachy Head Lighthouse is situated on Beachy Head Road, near Eastbourne, East Sussex. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby car park or by taking a guided tour with Trinity House.

The surrounding area offers stunning views of the English Channel and the South Downs National Park.

Heritage Status

The Beachy Head Lighthouse is listed as a Grade II* building on the UK's National Heritage List, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.

Notable Historical Events

Beachy Head has played an important role in maritime history, particularly during World War II. The lighthouse was used as a reference point for naval exercises and was also home to a small radio station that monitored enemy aircraft approaching the coast.

strong emphasis on historical events