Noss Head Lighthouse, Maritime lighthouse near Wick, Scotland
Description
Noss Head Lighthouse is a white cylindrical tower near Wick in the Scottish Highlands, topped with a black lantern dome and a distinctive glass structure at its peak. The 18-meter tall structure functions as an active navigation aid, with its beam reaching approximately 46 kilometers out to sea.
History
The structure was designed and built by engineer Alan Stevenson in 1849 to provide essential navigation aid for ships in the North Sea. Its construction marked a vital step forward in maritime safety along this challenging coastline.
Culture
The former keeper's cottages on the site now serve as a research center for the Clan Sinclair Trust, welcoming visitors interested in Scottish family history. This use connects the lighthouse's maritime past to local heritage and draws people exploring their ancestral roots.
Practical
Visiting is best during daylight hours, as the site sits on an exposed headland where weather can change rapidly. Access can be challenging, so bring sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing to explore the area safely.
Did you know?
During the Irish potato famine period, construction of the access road also employed local workers who desperately needed income. The route from Wick to the site therefore owes its existence partly to this humanitarian need that coincided with the building works.
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