Cantick Head Lighthouse

The Cantick Head Lighthouse was constructed in 1858 and has been an important aid to navigation on the Scottish coast ever since its completion.

History

The lighthouse is a prominent structure, standing at a height of 35 metres (115 feet) above sea level. Its focal height, which is the distance from the base of the tower to the top of the optic lens, is 55 metres (180 feet). The lighthouse features a distinctive white light with a range of 18 nautical miles and a period of 20 seconds.
The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of 19th-century lighthouses, with a tall, cylindrical tower supporting a smaller lantern room at the top. The structure is made from local stone and has undergone several restorations over the years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.

Light Characteristics

The Cantick Head Lighthouse features a white light with a specific sequence of flashes, denoted as "Fl 0.4+(19.6)". This means that the light will flash every 20 seconds for 0.4 seconds, followed by a period of 19.6 seconds without flashing.

Current Status

The Cantick Head Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it is now automated and no longer requires a keeper to tend the light. The lighthouse is still maintained regularly to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.

Location and Accessibility

The Cantick Head Lighthouse is located on the Scottish island of South Walls in the Orkney Islands, at an address of B9047.
The lighthouse can be accessed by road via a causeway that connects it to the larger island of Hoy. Visitors can also reach the lighthouse by boat or on foot from nearby Longhope village.