Ardnamurchan Lighthouse facts for kids
| Location | Lochaber Scotland |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 56°43′38″N 6°13′34″W / 56.7271°N 6.2260°W |
| Year first constructed | 1849 |
| Automated | 1988 |
| Construction | granite tower |
| Tower shape | Cylindrical Tower with balcony and lantern attached to 1-storey keeper's house |
| Markings / pattern | unpainted grey tower, black lantern |
| Height | 36 metres (118 ft) |
| Focal height | 55 metres (180 ft) |
| Range | 24 nautical miles (44 km; 28 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl (2) W 20s. |
Ardnamurchan Lighthouse is a famous old lighthouse in Scotland. It stands tall on Ardnamurchan Point in a beautiful area called Lochaber. This lighthouse was built a long time ago, in 1849. It was designed by a man named Alan Stevenson. What makes it special is its unique style – it's the only lighthouse in the whole United Kingdom built to look like ancient Egyptian buildings!
The lighthouse tower is about 36 meters (118 feet) tall. It is made from strong pink granite. In 1976, electricity was added to the lighthouse. Then, in 1988, the light became "automated." This means it works by itself without a person needing to be there all the time. Today, the Northern Lighthouse Board in Edinburgh controls it from far away.
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Visiting Ardnamurchan Lighthouse
The old houses where the lighthouse keepers used to live are now a fun place to visit. They are managed by the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Trust. You can explore a visitor centre and a museum called the 'Kingdom of Light'.
What You Can See
At the museum, you can learn all about the lighthouse's history. You can also see how it works. There's a restored engine room and a workshop. You can even see the original fog horn! Other exhibits teach you about the rocks and nature of the area. You can also learn about the local history and culture.
How the Lighthouse Works Today
Even though the lighthouse is automated, a part-time light keeper still works there. This keeper helps look after Ardnamurchan Lighthouse. They also take care of two other lighthouses nearby: Rubha nan Gall and Corran Point.
Modern Light Technology
Newer LED lights need less looking after. The light at Ardnamurchan used to use 48 watts of power. In 2019, this was increased to 72 watts. This is still much less power than old lighthouse lamps needed.
Ardnamurchan Lighthouse in Pop Culture
This famous lighthouse has even appeared in popular entertainment!
In Video Games
The very last part of the computer game Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened takes place inside Ardnamurchan Lighthouse. Players get to explore its secrets.
On Television
In 2021, the lighthouse was shown on the British TV show Top Gear. The presenters had a race with three off-road vehicles. Their mission was to deliver and fit a new light bulb at the lighthouse.
Images for kids
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The foghorn at Ardnamurchan Lighthouse.
See also
In Spanish: Faro de Ardnamurchan para niños
- List of lighthouses in Scotland
- List of Northern Lighthouse Board lighthouses
- List of Category A listed buildings in Highland
External links
- Northern Lighthouse Board
- Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Trust
