Trevose Head Lighthouse
GXX7+MW Padstow, UK
Name and Location
Trevose Head Lighthouse is located in Padstow, Cornwall, England, United Kingdom.
Construction and History
The Trevose Head Lighthouse was built in 1848 to guide mariners safely through the treacherous waters surrounding the Cornish coast. Over its long history, it has been a vital aid to navigation for over 170 years.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse is a characteristic example of the early 19th-century Victorian-era lighthouses. Its design features a tall, tapering tower with a distinctive square base and a pyramidal roof. The walls are constructed from local granite blocks, while its interior is lined with brickwork.
Light and Navigation
The Trevose Head Lighthouse emits a white light that can be seen up to 21 miles (34 kilometers) out to sea. The light characteristic is Fl (3) W 15s, indicating a flash every 15 seconds, with three flashes in rapid succession.
Accessibility and Visiting
Although the lighthouse is no longer manned, visitors can access the surrounding coastal path and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Notable Views and Landscape
The Trevose Head Lighthouse sits at the northernmost point of Cornwall, overlooking the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the coast.
Anecdotes and Folklore
- Trevose Head has a rich history of shipwrecks, with many vessels having met their demise on the rocky coastline.
- Locals whisper tales of smuggling and piracy, adding to the lighthouse's mystique.
Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse was automated in the 1990s, bringing an end to the era of human keepers. It remains an important aid to navigation for mariners.
Further Information
The Trevose Head Lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance and cultural importance. In 1985, it was designated as a Grade II listed building by English Heritage, ensuring its protection for future generations. The lighthouse is managed by Trinity House, a charitable organization dedicated to the preservation and maintenance of lighthouses and other maritime aids to navigation.
Details
Name | Trevose Head Lighthouse |
---|---|
City | Padstow |
Country | United Kingdom |
Coordinates | 50.5492201, -5.0352132 |
Year of construction | 1848 |
Events | Many vessels met their demise on the rocky coastline |
Historic significance | Maritime aid to navigation, Grade II listed building |
Stories | Shipwrecks, smuggling, piracy |
Architectural style | Victorian-era lighthouse |
Construction material | Local granite blocks, brickwork |
Focal height | 62 |
Tower height | 19 |
Renovations | Automated in the 1990s |
Access description | Coastal path and surrounding views |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | Rocky coast, dunes, island |
View description | Stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean |
Facilities | Toilets, Café, Gift shop |
Nearby attractions | Treacherous waters, rocky coastline |
Light characteristic | Fl (3) W 15s |
Light range | 34 |
Automated | true |