Amlwch Lighthouse

Amlwch Lighthouse is a square stone tower on the outer pier of Amlwch harbour, on the north-east tip of Anglesey, Wales. The tower you see today dates from 1853 and is the fourth lighthouse to stand on this spot. It is a Grade II listed building on the Cadw register, Wales's heritage protection record.

What will you see at the lighthouse?

The tower marks the end of the pier guarding the entrance to the old harbour. Its lower courses, up to about 4.6 m, are original dressed stone, weathered by decades of sea and wind. The lantern on top was fitted at a later date. A small attached building, described in the listing as an exhibition centre, sits at its foot. Together with the pier and the old quays, it forms a compact piece of Anglesey's industrial waterfront.

Why does such a historic harbour sit in Amlwch?

Copper was found on nearby Parys Mountain in 1768, and the mines turned a small village into one of Europe's leading copper centres. As shipping grew, an Act of Parliament in 1793 authorised enlarging the harbour, citing safer navigation and a refuge for vessels in storms. The pier went up in 1816 and the lighthouse followed in 1853.

Earlier still, in 1748, customs officer Lewis Morris surveyed the North Wales coast for the Admiralty. He thought Amlwch's inlet too small to be worth charting in detail, though he noted that one large ship could shelter there in an emergency.

How do you explore the area?

The harbour is flat and an easy stroll along the quays. The Copper Kingdom centre beside the old port explains the mining story and the archaeology of Parys Mountain. The abandoned mine workings lie a couple of miles to the south and make a natural add-on. From the lighthouse you can join the Anglesey Coast Path towards Llaneilian and on to Point Lynas, home to another lighthouse. Some sections are steeper and rougher, so wear sturdy shoes. Walking guides mention a small car park near the port.

When should you visit?

You can view the lighthouse from outside all year, but dry, calm weather is best, since waves can reach the pier in storms. Late afternoon light brings out the texture of the stonework. Check opening times for the exhibition space and Copper Kingdom before you travel, as they can change.

Frequently asked questions

When was Amlwch Lighthouse built? The present tower dates from 1853 and is the fourth on the site. The pier beneath it was built in 1816.

Is it a listed building? Yes. Cadw listed it as Grade II in 1974.

Can you go inside? The attached building is recorded as an exhibition centre. Access depends on current opening hours, so ask locally or at Copper Kingdom.

What else is nearby? The Copper Kingdom centre, the old harbour with its dry dock, the Parys Mountain mines, and Point Lynas lighthouse along the coast path.