Cloch Lighthouse

The Cloch Lighthouse has been an integral part of maritime safety on the east coast of Scotland since its construction in 1797.

History

The Cloch Lighthouse was built to warn ships of The Gantocks, a notorious shipping hazard in the Firth of Clyde.
Over the years, the lighthouse has undergone several modifications and upgrades to ensure its continued effectiveness.

Architecture

The Cloch Lighthouse is a traditional stone tower with a distinctive shape, characteristic of many Scottish lighthouses.

Its construction materials include local sandstone and granite, which provide excellent durability and resistance to the harsh marine environment.
The tower stands at 24 metres (79 feet) tall, while its focal height reaches an impressive 30 metres (98 feet).

Light Characteristics

The Cloch Lighthouse emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen for up to 8 nautical miles.

Its characteristic pattern is a Fl (first order) light, which flashes every 3 seconds.
The light's colour is white, and its sequence follows the standard maritime convention.

Current Status

The Cloch Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated over the years.

While it continues to serve as a vital navigational aid, it is no longer manned by a keeper.

Location and Accessibility

Cloch Road, located near the village of Dunoon on the east coast of Scotland, provides access to the lighthouse.

The surrounding area offers stunning views of the Firth of Clyde and the nearby islands.

Heritage Status

The Cloch Lighthouse is listed as a Category A historic site by Historic Environment Scotland, recognizing its importance in Scottish maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

In 1886, a navigation beacon was constructed on the Gantocks rocks near the lighthouse.
This marked an important development in the region's maritime safety infrastructure.