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Portishead Point Lighthouse

Esplanade Road

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Portishead Point Lighthouse (Portishead)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Portishead Point Lighthouse

The Portishead Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1931 and has been an important aid to navigation for mariners ever since its completion.

History

  • The lighthouse played a significant role in the maritime industry, particularly during World War II when it served as a vital reference point for ships navigating the Bristol Channel.
  • The Portishead Point Lighthouse was designed by a prominent architectural firm of the time, utilizing traditional construction materials such as stone and brick to create a sturdy and weather-resistant structure.

Architecture

The tower of the Portishead Point Lighthouse stands at a height of 9 meters (30 feet) above sea level, while its focal height is approximately 24 meters (79 feet).

  • The lighthouse features a distinctive white light that can be seen from a distance of up to 16 nautical miles.
  • The light's pattern consists of a single "Q" character, indicating a rotating beam with a sector start angle of 60 degrees and a sector end angle of 262 degrees.

Location

The Portishead Point Lighthouse is situated on Esplanade Road in the town of Portishead, located in the United Kingdom.

Current Status

The Portishead Point Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated over the years.

  • While it no longer requires human tenders, the lighthouse continues to provide vital guidance to mariners navigating the Bristol Channel.

Heritage Status

The Portishead Point Lighthouse is listed as a Grade II* building by Historic England, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.

Notable Historical Events

  • During World War II, the Portishead Point Lighthouse played a critical role in supporting the British war effort.
  • The lighthouse has also been featured in various publications and media outlets over the years, highlighting its importance as a navigational aid and its enduring presence on the UK coastline.

Architecture Details

The lighthouse's design is characteristic of the period in which it was built, with a focus on functionality and safety.

  • The tower stands at a height of 9 meters (30 feet) above sea level, while its focal height is approximately 24 meters (79 feet).

Current Operations

The Portishead Point Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated over the years.

  • While it no longer requires human tenders, the lighthouse continues to provide vital guidance to mariners navigating the Bristol Channel.

Historic Significance

The Portishead Point Lighthouse is listed as a Grade II* building by Historic England, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.

Notable Features

  • The lighthouse features a distinctive white light that can be seen from a distance of up to 16 nautical miles.
  • The light's pattern consists of a single "Q" character, indicating a rotating beam with a sector start angle of 60 degrees and a sector end angle of 262 degrees.

Tourist Information

The Portishead Point Lighthouse is easily accessible by road or foot, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

World War II Significance

  • During World War II, the Portishead Point Lighthouse played a critical role in supporting the British war effort.
  • The lighthouse served as a vital reference point for ships navigating the Bristol Channel, providing essential guidance and safety for mariners.

Media Coverage

  • The lighthouse has also been featured in various publications and media outlets over the years, highlighting its importance as a navigational aid and its enduring presence on the UK coastline.

Prominent Design Features

The Portishead Point Lighthouse was designed by a prominent architectural firm of the time, utilizing traditional construction materials such as stone and brick to create a sturdy and weather-resistant structure.

Historic Listing

The Portishead Point Lighthouse is listed as a Grade II* building by Historic England, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.

Key Statistics

  • The tower of the Portishead Point Lighthouse stands at a height of 9 meters (30 feet) above sea level.
  • The lighthouse's focal height is approximately 24 meters (79 feet).

Lighthouse Details

The Portishead Point Lighthouse features a distinctive white light that can be seen from a distance of up to 16 nautical miles.

  • The light's pattern consists of a single "Q" character, indicating a rotating beam with a sector start angle of 60 degrees and a sector end angle of 262 degrees.

Construction Details

The Portishead Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1931 and has been an important aid to navigation for mariners ever since its completion.

  • The lighthouse played a significant role in the maritime industry, particularly during World War II when it served as a vital reference point for ships navigating the Bristol Channel.

Details

NamePortishead Point Lighthouse
CityPortishead
CountryUnited Kingdom
Coordinates51.49461, -2.773616
Current useactive navigation