Ardmore Point Lighthouse

Ardmore Point Lighthouse is a small automated light on the north coast of the Isle of Mull, in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. It marks Ardmore Point, at the western entrance to the Sound of Mull, west of the town of Tobermory, and is run by the Northern Lighthouse Board, the body responsible for navigation lights around Scotland.

What kind of lighthouse is it?

Don't expect a stone tower with a keeper's cottage. A light has operated on the point since 1958, and the present structure went up in 2003. It is a slim skeleton tower clad in white aluminium and glass-fibre panels, much like the light at Ardtornish across the water. The lamp sits roughly 17 metres (about 60 feet) above the sea, shows two white flashes every 10 seconds and carries about 8 nautical miles. It guides vessels entering the Sound of Mull.

Can you go inside?

No. This is a working, unmanned navigation aid, so there is no museum, ticket desk or tour. You see it from outside, and the setting is the draw: open water, the sound and the facing shores.

How do you get there?

The point is reached on foot via the Ardmore Shore Walk, which starts near Tobermory. Walkers describe an easy route on forest tracks and paths, around 7 km with about 180 m of climbing, taking anywhere from one to a few hours depending on pace and stops. A side track leads out to the headland with the light. Following the shoreline itself means scrambling over rocks, so stick to the paths. You can lengthen the outing by continuing towards Glengorm Castle. Bring waterproof footwear, as weather on the Hebridean coast turns quickly.

What else is nearby?

This stretch of north Mull is good for wildlife. Walkers scan the shore for otters, and white-tailed sea eagles, Britain's largest bird of prey, feed along the coast. Otters can be elusive, so bring binoculars and patience. Ranger-led trips are available through Mull Eagle Watch.

When should you visit?

The point can be visited year-round, but late spring and summer are the easiest, with long daylight. Evening gives the best photographic light as the sun sinks over the sea. In winter paths get muddy and days are short.

Frequently asked questions

Can I enter Ardmore Point Lighthouse? No. It is an automated Northern Lighthouse Board light closed to visitors. You can walk to the headland and view it from outside.

Is it the same as the Rubha nan Gall lighthouse? No. Rubha nan Gall is an older stone lighthouse first lit in 1857, about 1.5 km north of Tobermory. Ardmore Point is a separate light on Mull's north coast.

Is this the Ardmore Point on the Clyde? No. The name recurs in Scotland and Ireland. This lighthouse stands on Mull in Argyll and Bute.

How long is the walk? The Ardmore Shore Walk is about 7 km and takes from one to a few hours, depending on your pace.