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Buchan Ness lighthouse

Harbour Street

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Buchan Ness lighthouse (Boddam)
Image source: upload.wikimedia.org

Buchan Ness Lighthouse

The Buchan Ness lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners approaching the coast of Boddam, Scotland.

History

  • The construction of the lighthouse is believed to have taken place in 1840, during the reign of Lord Aberdeen.
  • The Buchan Ness lighthouse was automated in 1988, marking the end of an era for human-attended navigation.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The lighthouse stands at a height of approximately 40 meters (131 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of around 50 meters (164 feet).

  • The structure is constructed from local stone and mortar.

Light Characteristics

The Buchan Ness lighthouse emits a white light that can be seen at a range of 28 nautical miles.

  • The light's sequence is reported to follow a Fl (flash) pattern with a period of 5 seconds, and its character is designated as "Fl".
  • The light is reportedly equipped with a radar transponder.

Current Status

The Buchan Ness lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its role has been largely superseded by modern electronic aids.

Location and Accessibility

The Buchan Ness lighthouse is situated on a bridged island connected to the village of Boddam on mainland Scotland.

  • The island can be accessed via a short causeway from the village, which is reached via Harbour Street.

Heritage Status

Buchan Ness is described in the Gazetteer for Scotland as a headland, and its lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance.

  • No specific heritage designation or listing has been confirmed.

Notable Historical Events

The Buchan Ness lighthouse has played an important role in maritime history, serving as a beacon for mariners navigating the treacherous coastline of Boddam.

  • The island's unique geography and proximity to the sea have made it an attractive location for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The lighthouse features a distinctive Italianate marine villa design, characteristic of the period in which it was built.

  • The structure is constructed from local stone and mortar.

Light Characteristics

The Buchan Ness lighthouse emits a white light that can be seen at a range of 28 nautical miles.

  • The light's sequence is reported to follow a Fl (flash) pattern with a period of 5 seconds, and its character is designated as "Fl".
  • The light is reportedly equipped with a radar transponder.

Current Status

The Buchan Ness lighthouse was automated in 1988, marking the end of an era for human-attended navigation.

Location and Accessibility

The Buchan Ness lighthouse is situated on a bridged island connected to the village of Boddam on mainland Scotland.

  • The island can be accessed via a short causeway from the village, which is reached via Harbour Street.

Details

NameBuchan Ness lighthouse
CityBoddam
CountryUnited Kingdom
Coordinates57.470444, -1.7744572
Current useactive navigation