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Tayport Low Light

West Lights

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Tayport Low Light

The Tayport Low Light is a disused lighthouse located on the west coast of Scotland, near the town of Tayport. The structure has a long and storied history, dating back to the 19th century.

History

  • The Tayport Low Light was constructed in 1869 by the Bell Rock Lighthouse Company.
  • The tower stands at a height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of around 30 meters (98 feet).
  • The lighthouse is built from local sandstone and features a distinctive octagonal shape.

Light Characteristics

The Tayport Low Light was equipped with a fixed white light, which was visible from a distance of several miles out to sea. The light's pattern was a simple rotating beam, designed to aid mariners in navigating the treacherous coastline.

Current Status

The Tayport Low Light is no longer an active aid to navigation and has been disused since its decommissioning. The structure is currently privately owned and is not open to the public for tours or visits.

Location and Accessibility

The Tayport Low Light is located at West Lights, near the town of Tayport in Scotland. While the lighthouse itself is not accessible to the general public, visitors can explore the surrounding area and enjoy scenic views of the coastline.

Heritage Status

The Tayport Low Light has been recognized for its historical significance and is listed as a Category A building by Historic Environment Scotland. This designation acknowledges the structure's importance in Scotland's architectural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

  • During World War II, the Tayport Low Light played an important role in the war effort, serving as a lookout point for German U-boat sightings.

Architecture

The Tayport Low Light was constructed in 1869 by the Bell Rock Lighthouse Company. The tower stands at a height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of around 30 meters (98 feet). The lighthouse is built from local sandstone and features a distinctive octagonal shape.

Light

The Tayport Low Light was equipped with a fixed white light, which was visible from a distance of several miles out to sea. The light's pattern was a simple rotating beam, designed to aid mariners in navigating the treacherous coastline.

Disuse

The Tayport Low Light is no longer an active aid to navigation and has been disused since its decommissioning. The structure is currently privately owned and is not open to the public for tours or visits.

Heritage

The Tayport Low Light has been recognized for its historical significance and is listed as a Category A building by Historic Environment Scotland. This designation acknowledges the structure's importance in Scotland's architectural heritage.

Details

NameTayport Low Light
CityTayport
CountryUnited Kingdom
Coordinates56.45283, -2.8923886
ArchitectBell Rock Lighthouse Company
Accessiblefalse