Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse

Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse is a small timber lighthouse standing on the beach at Burnham-on-Sea, on the Somerset coast of the Bristol Channel. It is one of the best-known landmarks of the town and, unlike its two older neighbours, it is still working as a navigation aid.

What is the Low Lighthouse and why is it special?

The tower was first lit in 1832. It is built of wood and rests on a group of piles driven into the foreshore, so at high tide it stands surrounded by water, while at low tide you can walk right up to its base across the sand. It was designed by Joseph Nelson, following a survey of the coast by Lieutenant Henry Denham. Today it has Grade II listed status, which protects it as a building of special architectural and historic interest. Its slim silhouette on the flat, muddy shore makes it a favourite subject for photographers.

How does it relate to the other Burnham lighthouses?

Burnham-on-Sea has three historic lighthouse structures, and it is easy to mix them up. The Low Lighthouse is the one on the beach. The High Lighthouse is a separate building on the seafront road, and the Round Tower is older again. The Low and High lights were designed as a pair: sailors lined up the two lights to steer safely into the tricky channel off the coast. This partnership lasted 137 years, until the Low Lighthouse was switched off in 1969. It was brought back into service in 1993, when the High Lighthouse was retired instead.

How do you get to the lighthouse?

The beach is in the centre of town and the lighthouse is reached from the foreshore near Gore Road. From the seafront it is a short walk over the sand. The lighthouse itself is not open to visitors, so you view it from outside.

When is the best time to visit?

Check the tide tables before you go. At low water the tower stands on open sand and you can approach it; at high water the sea comes in around the piles and the view is more dramatic but the base is out of reach. The Bristol Channel has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, and the water can move fast over the flat shore, so keep an eye on the tide and avoid wandering far out on the mud.

What else is nearby?

Burnham-on-Sea is a traditional seaside town with a long beach, a promenade, shops and cafes within a few minutes of the lighthouse. The High Lighthouse and the Round Tower can be seen on the same short walk, making it easy to see all three structures in a single outing.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse still in use? Yes. It was deactivated in 1969 but re-established in 1993, and it continues to serve as a navigation light.

Can I go inside? No, it is a working aid to navigation and is viewed from the beach.

Is it a listed building? Yes, it holds Grade II listed status.

Which lighthouse is the one on the sand? The Low Lighthouse. The High Lighthouse and the Round Tower stand on land in the town.