Brough of Birsay Lighthouse

The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse is situated on an uninhabited tidal island off the north-west coast of The Mainland, Orkney, Scotland.

History

• The lighthouse has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, when it was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for mariners.
• The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse was constructed in 1984 to replace an earlier lighthouse that stood on the same site.

Architecture

The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse is a modern structure built in 1984. It stands at a height of 52 meters (171 feet) above sea level and has a focal height of 62 meters (203 feet).

• The lighthouse features a distinctive design, with a cylindrical tower supporting a lantern room at its top.
• The building material used for the construction of the lighthouse is concrete.

Light Characteristics

The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse emits a white light that can be seen from a distance of 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers).

• Pattern: Fl (flash)
• Range: 18 nautical miles
• Colour: White
• Height: 62 meters
• Period: 25 seconds
• Sequence: 0.2+(4)+0.2+(16.4)

Current Status

The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, operated by the UK Hydrographic Office.

The lighthouse has been automated since its construction in 1984.

Location and Accessibility

The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse is located on a tidal island off the north-west coast of The Mainland, Orkney, Scotland.

The nearest town is Stromness, which is approximately 13 miles (21 kilometers) south of the lighthouse.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via the Birsay Causeway.

Heritage Status

The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse has been designated as a Grade A listed building by Historic Environment Scotland.

Notable Historical Events

• The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse was constructed in 1984 to replace an earlier lighthouse that stood on the same site.
• The new lighthouse was designed to provide improved navigation for mariners and to reduce the risk of accidents at sea.