Belle Tout Lighthouse

The Belle Tout Lighthouse was built in 1832 and has been an iconic landmark on Beachy Head, East Sussex, ever since its construction.

History

• The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation, serving as a beacon for ships approaching the English Channel.
• The Belle Tout Lighthouse is a striking example of Victorian-era architecture, featuring a distinctive cylindrical tower with a lantern room at the top.

Light Characteristics

• The Belle Tout Lighthouse originally featured a fixed beam of light, but its characteristics have changed over time.
• Initially, the light was visible from 20 nautical miles away, but this range decreased to around 10 nautical miles after the lighthouse's Fresnel lens was replaced in 1927.

Current Status

The Belle Tout Lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation and has been decommissioned since 1984.

However, it remains a popular tourist destination and is now operated as a museum by the East Sussex National Trust.

The lighthouse has undergone significant restoration work to ensure its stability and preservation for future generations.

Location

The Belle Tout Lighthouse is situated on Beachy Head Road in Eastbourne, East Sussex, England.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby car park or by taking a guided tour.

Due to its remote location, visitors should be prepared for challenging coastal paths and potentially inclement weather.

Heritage Status

The Belle Tout Lighthouse was designated as a Grade II listed building in 1970, recognizing its historical significance and architectural importance.

The lighthouse has also been included on the National Heritage List for England, further solidifying its status as a national treasure.

Notable Historical Events

• In 1999, the East Sussex National Trust successfully relocated the Belle Tout Lighthouse to its current site using a combination of cranes, pulleys, and manual labor.