Dunnet Head Lighthouse

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is situated on the northern coast of Caithness, Scotland, 10.5 miles west of John o' Groats.

History

• The lighthouse has a long history, dating back to the late 19th century when it was constructed to aid navigation in the treacherous waters off the north-eastern coast of Scotland.
• The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area.

Architecture

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is a tall, white tower with a flat roof, standing at a height of 20 metres (66 feet) above sea level.

The lighthouse has a distinctive shape and is typical of many Scottish lighthouses of its era, using local stone and brick.

Light Characteristics

• The Dunnet Head Lighthouse emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen for up to 23 nautical miles (43 km) out to sea.
• The light is characterized by a distinctive sequence of flashes, with a period of 30 seconds between each flash.

Current Status

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is currently an automated aid to navigation, meaning it is no longer manned by a keeper.

However, it remains an important navigational aid for mariners in the area.

Location and Accessibility

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is located on the northern coast of Caithness, Scotland, at the southern end of the peninsula known as Dunnet Head.

The lighthouse can be accessed via a public road, B855, which runs along the coast.

Visitors can park near the lighthouse and take in the stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

Heritage Status

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is a protected monument, recognized for its historical significance and architectural importance.

It is listed on the Scottish Historic Environment Record (SHER) as a Category A building, indicating that it is considered to be of national importance.

Notable Historical Events

• The Dunnet Head Lighthouse has played an important role in maritime history, particularly during World War II when it was used as a navigation aid for Allied ships.
• The lighthouse also features on the list of Scotland's most iconic landmarks and has been featured in numerous publications and guides to the country's historic sites.