Kinnaird Head lighthouses

Kinnaird Head is a lighthouse built into a converted castle on the Scottish coast. The cylindrical tower sits atop the older fortification, creating a unique structure that now houses a museum dedicated to maritime navigation.

The fortress at this location dates back centuries, but was transformed in 1787 into Scotland's first lighthouse. This conversion by the Northern Lighthouse Board joined the old castle with a new tool for guiding ships safely.

The museum here tells the story of how sailors found their way at sea and what life was like for lighthouse keepers. You can see the tools and objects they actually used, which helps you understand their daily routines and challenges.

The warmer months offer the longest visiting hours, making them ideal for a full tour. Wear comfortable shoes because the stairs inside are narrow and steep, so you will need good footing.

An advanced optical system installed in the early 1900s is still working here and shows how ingeniously light could be focused to guide ships. This technology was groundbreaking for maritime safety and remains one of only a few working examples in Scotland.

Location: Aberdeenshire

GPS coordinates: 57.69772,-2.00394

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:05