Chanonry Point Lighthouse

Chanonry Point Lighthouse stands at the tip of Chanonry Ness, a shingle spit jutting into the Moray Firth on the Black Isle, Highland, close to Rosemarkie. The spit runs between the towns of Fortrose and Rosemarkie, and the shoreline here is one of the best places in Scotland to watch dolphins from land.

Who built the lighthouse, and when?

It was first lit in 1846 to a design by Alan Stevenson, engineer to the Northern Lighthouse Board (NLB), the body that looks after navigation lights around Scotland. It has been fully automated since 1984 and remains under NLB management, so nobody lives on duty in it.

The heritage protection applies to the surrounding complex: the keeper's cottage, boundary wall and gate piers are a Category A listed building, listed on 25 March 1971. The tower itself is not part of that entry. You can view the cottage and wall from outside, but there is no interior visit.

What is there to see?

The draw is the bottlenose dolphins that hunt in the narrow channel off the point, where the tidal flow pushes fish close to shore. You stand only a few metres from the water, so no binoculars are needed. Seals and seabirds are regular sights too. The white tower behind you and the far side of the firth make for strong photos.

When should you come for the dolphins?

Aim for roughly an hour after low tide, on the rising water. Check tide tables for Rosemarkie before you set off. May to August is the main season, but nothing is guaranteed with wild animals. Go midweek and early in the morning for fewer crowds.

How do you get there and where do you park?

The road to the point starts from Fortrose or Rosemarkie, both a few minutes away. The car park is small and fills fast. Vehicles over 6 metres are not allowed, and in summer there may be parking charges and a shuttle bus linking the point with Fortrose and Rosemarkie, so check current arrangements locally. Alternatively, leave your car in Fortrose and walk, about 30 minutes. The viewing area is wheelchair accessible.

What should you bring?

The spit is exposed and windy even in summer. Pack a warm, windproof layer and shoes that cope with shingle.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the lighthouse? No. It is an operating NLB light, and the keeper's cottage is seen from outside only.

What is the best time to see dolphins? About an hour after low tide, on the rising tide, mostly from May to August.

Is there an entry fee? Access to the point is free. Summer parking may be charged.

How long should you plan? One to two hours covers a walk and some watching, longer if you wait for the dolphins.