Southwold lighthouse

Southwold lighthouse is a 31 meter tall brick structure located at the center of town that helps guide ships along the North Sea coast. The white-painted building provides views over the town and surrounding seascape from its viewing platform.

The structure was built in 1887 to replace three earlier lighthouses threatened by coastal erosion at Orfordness. Engineer James Douglass directed the project and created an important navigation point for North Sea shipping.

The lighthouse serves as a familiar landmark that connects visitors and residents to Southwold's maritime character. It shapes how people experience the town and acts as a natural gathering point for those drawn to the seaside.

The lighthouse welcomes visitors interested in guided tours and willing to climb approximately 113 steps to reach the top. Wear sturdy shoes since the stairs are steep and the building is historic.

In 2012 the light was upgraded and its range extended from 17 to 24 nautical miles after the Orfordness lighthouse was decommissioned. This improvement made Southwold the primary navigation point for the northern British coastline.

Location: Southwold

Inception: 1887

Architects: James Nicholas Douglass

Height: 31 m

Made from material: brick

Website: https://trinityhouse.co.uk/lighthouses-and-lightvessels/southwold-lighthouse

GPS coordinates: 52.32724,1.68143

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:09