Shine a Light
Our coastline is dotted with lighthouses, here we take a look at some of the country’s best lighthouses.
The lighthouses of Ireland
Ireland’s rugged coastline has throughout history proved to be treacherous for seafarers. Approaching in the darkness is no small task, but thankfully we are blessed with a series of incredible lighthouses, which to this day still shine a light across our coast.
Hook Lighthouse
Hook Lighthouse dates back to the 12th century, making it the second oldest functioning lighthouse in the world. Located at the very end of the Hook Peninsula, in Wexford, few lighthouses can boast of having such a strong connection to Irish history as Hook Lighthouse.
The lighthouse was built by William Marshall, the earl of Pembroke and Lord of Leinster. Originally, a small group of monks became the first lighthouse keepers in the area, warning sailors about the dangerous rocks along the coast. The first lighthouse keepers arrived at Hook Head in the 17th century and it wasn’t until 1996 that the lighthouse switched to automatic operation. Today, the lighthouse is still functioning, and attracts visitors from far and wide to bask in awe at the structure.
Fastnet Lighthouse
Located at the most southerly point of Ireland in Cork, one could be forgiven for having never heard of Ireland’s Teardrop. The name comes from the fact that the island was the last thing Irish emigrants saw as they departed for North
“Few lighthouses can boast of having such a strong connection to Irish history as Hook Lighthouse”
America. Fastnet Lighthouse shone its first light in 1854, but it soon became clear that the original structure couldn’t sustain the harsh environment. To combat this a second structure was built and completed in 1904. This was considered one of the most impressive lighthouse builds of the time and was held up as a modern marvel. Since the new structure was built, Fastnet has stood strong. It has survived hurricanes and was even hit by a wave 50 metres high, in 1985.
Sheep’s Head Lighthouse
Also located in county Cork, Sheep’s Head is perhaps the most unique lighthouse on this list. It sits on the edge of a cliff located deep in Bantry Bay and is almost impossible to point out during the day due to its size. Built in 1968, supplies for the lighthouse needed to be airlifted in by helicopter as it was impossible to transport it in by foot safely. Sheep’s Head cannot be accessed by car, so a cliff walk to the lighthouse is unavoidable for anyone wishing to make a visit.
St John’s Point Lighthouse
Designed by a well-known civil engineer called George Halpin Senior, St John’s Point Lighthouse is over 40 metres tall, making it Ireland’s tallest lighthouse.
The Titanic ran sea-trials in the waters around St John’s Point, which was painted completely white, before the black and yellow stripes were added. Interestingly, famous Irish playwright Brendan Behan’s
“Fastnet Lighthouse has survived hurricanes and even a 50-metre high wave which hit, in 1985”
father was commissioned to paint the lighthouse, but reportedly made a mess of it and the job had to be re-done!
Fanad Head Lighthouse
Located between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay, Fanad Lighthouse is one of the final stops along the Donegal portion of the Wild Atlantic Way and is, without question, one of the most visually pleasing.
Also designed by George Halpin, Fanad lit its first light on St Patrick’s Day, in 1817. While of course the scenery surrounding Fanad is amazing, its history is also fascinating.
In 1917, the SS Laurentic struck two German mines by Lough Swilly, sinking the ship and killing 300 souls on board. There was a huge amount of gold on board, much of which is yet to be recovered. The SS Laurentic still sits by Lough Swilly and is a popular attraction for divers. Fanad Lighthouse remains one of the most impressive attractions in the area.