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The Lizard

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The Lizard (Lizard)
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The Lizard

The Lizard is situated on the southernmost point of the British mainland, near Lizard Point in Cornwall, England, United Kingdom.

The lighthouse is located at an address of Lighthouse Road, within the civil parish of Landewednack.

History

The Lizard Lighthouse was constructed in 1752 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners navigating the hazardous coastlines around the peninsula.

The area has been known for its treacherous seas and is often referred to as the "Graveyard of Ships".

Architecture and Construction Materials

The lighthouse stands at a height of 70 meters (230 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 120 meters (394 feet).

It features a distinctive tower design and was constructed using traditional materials.

Light Characteristics

The Lizard Lighthouse emits a white light that is visible from a range of 26 nautical miles.

The light has a period of 3 seconds and is characterized by a flashing pattern of Fl, indicating a two-second flash followed by a one-and-a-half-second pause.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it is now automated.

It is managed by the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution), which operates a lifeboat station in the area.

Heritage Status

The Lizard has been designated as a National Character Area 157 by Natural England and lies within the Cornwall National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Notable Historical Events

The Lizard Lighthouse has played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners navigating the treacherous coastlines around the peninsula.

  • The Lizard Lighthouse was constructed in 1752 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners navigating the hazardous coastlines around the peninsula.
  • The area has been known for its treacherous seas and is often referred to as the "Graveyard of Ships".
  • The lighthouse stands at a height of 70 meters (230 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 120 meters (394 feet).
  • The light has a period of 3 seconds and is characterized by a flashing pattern of Fl, indicating a two-second flash followed by a one-and-a-half-second pause.

Details

NameThe Lizard
CityLizard
CountryUnited Kingdom
Coordinates49.960205, -5.202116
Current useactive navigation