Peninnis Head Lighthouse

The Peninnis Head Lighthouse is a prominent maritime aid located on the southernmost point of St Mary's, Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall, England.

History

• Built by Trinity House in 1911, the lighthouse replaced an earlier structure dating back to the 17th century. The new tower was designed to provide improved navigation for mariners approaching the island.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The Peninnis Head Lighthouse is a squat, white-painted tower with a distinctive shape. It stands at a height of approximately 36 meters (118 feet) above sea level, while its focal height reaches 54 meters (177 feet). The lighthouse has a characteristic red-and-white striped pattern on its exterior.

Light Characteristics

The Peninnis Head Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 9 nautical miles. The light is visible every 20 seconds and is characterized by the international Morse code sequence "Fl" (one long followed by nineteen short flashes).

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation in 1911.

Location and Accessibility

The Peninnis Head Lighthouse is situated on King Edward's Road, within the Isles of Scilly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The headland itself is part of the Heritage Coast, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby town of Hugh Town.

Heritage Status

The Peninnis Head SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) designation was awarded in 1971 for its geological and biological significance. The site is also part of the Geological Conservation Review, recognizing its importance for Quaternary geomorphology.

Notable Historical Events

While there are no specific events associated with the lighthouse itself, the nearby Peninnis Head has been an important location for navigation and exploration throughout history.