Pendeen Lighthouse

Pendeen Lighthouse is a cylindrical concrete tower standing 17 meters high on a granite headland, with its light positioned about 59 meters above sea level. The complex includes the main tower, former keeper's cottages, and courtyard walls that form a cohesive historic group of buildings.

Built in 1900 by Trinity House, it was constructed to protect vessels from dangerous rocks at Pendeen Watch where many ships had encountered difficulties. The lighthouse became an important aid to safety on this treacherous stretch of Cornish coast.

The lighthouse complex served as a home for lighthouse keepers and their families who lived isolated lives on this rugged headland. Visitors today can see the former residential buildings and understand how people worked and lived in this remote coastal setting.

The tower is now automated and flashes four times every 15 seconds, with its LED lantern visible up to 16 nautical miles across the Atlantic. Visitors should expect rough coastal terrain and should bring sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing for this exposed headland setting.

The complex collects rainwater from its roof and stores it underground to maintain a self-sufficient water supply for the buildings. This system demonstrates how resource management was and remains critical for an isolated coastal station.

Location: Cornwall

Location: St Just

Inception: 1900

Height: 17 m

Part of: Pendeen Lighthouse And Keepers' Cottages With Courtyard Walls

GPS coordinates: 50.16497,-5.67159

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:01