Bishop Rock Lighthouse

The Bishop Rock lighthouse is located off the westernmost part of the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago 45 kilometres (24 nautical miles) off the southwestern tip of the Cornish peninsula of Great Britain.

History

• The original iron lighthouse was begun in 1847 but was washed away before it could be completed. The present building was completed in 1858 and was first lit on 1 September that year.
• The Bishop Rock lighthouse is a notable example of Victorian-era architecture.

Architecture

The Bishop Rock lighthouse is a notable example of Victorian-era architecture. It stands at a height of 44 metres (144 feet) above the sea level, with a focal height of approximately 65 metres (213 feet). The tower is constructed from granite and features a distinctive octagonal shape.

Light Characteristics

The Bishop Rock lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 20 nautical miles (37 kilometres) and a visibility of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometres).

• The light is visible for a period of 15 seconds every 30 minutes, with a sequence of flashes that can be seen from a distance.

Current Status

The Bishop Rock lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation in the late 19th century.

• The lighthouse is no longer open to visitors for climbing purposes, but it remains an important navigational aid for mariners.

Location and Accessibility

Bishop Rock is located approximately 45 kilometres (24 nautical miles) off the southwestern tip of the Cornish peninsula of Great Britain.

• The lighthouse can be accessed by boat, although this requires special permission from Trinity House.
• Visitors to the Isles of Scilly can also access Bishop Rock by ferry.

Heritage Status

The Bishop Rock lighthouse is a Grade I listed building and is considered to be one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK.

• It has been designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, which provides protection for the structure and its surrounding environment.

Notable Historical Events

Bishop Rock played an important role in the history of transatlantic ocean liner travel.

• In the early 20th century, it was used as a reference point by ocean liners competing for the Blue Riband speed record.
• The lighthouse's location at the eastern end of this route made it an important navigational aid for mariners traveling between Europe and North America.