Lizard Lighthouse
The Lizard Lighthouse is situated at Lizard Point, Britain's most southerly point.
The lighthouse dates to 1751 and was built by Thomas Fonnerau. Standing on soaring 70 metre high cliffs, the lighthouse guards the treacherous waters and hazardous rocks around Lizard Point. An earlier lighthouse which once occupied the site, built by Sir John Killigrew in 1619, was decommissioned and demolished because ship owners were unwilling to pay a toll for its maintenance.
The present lighthouse consists of two towers, each of which contains a light, with a keeper's cottage positioned inbetween. Trinity House assumed control of the Lizard Lighthouse in 1771, and structural alterations were carried out in 1812, when the lighthouse assumed its present appearance.
The coal fires were replaced by Argand oil lights in 1812, in 1878 they were themselves replaced by generator supplied electricity, and the lighthouse was fully automated in 1998.
The Lizard Lighthouse is open to the public, a visitor car park is provided by the entrance gate. Visitors may ascend the 70 metre high lighthouse tower from where there are stunning views. The coastline around the lighthouse offers spectacular walks along the cliffs on which there are an abundance of wild flowers.
Image copyright Gordon Mc Kinlay
Opening Times
July 11.00 - 18.00
August 11.00-19.00