Holburn Head Lighthouse

Holburn Head Lighthouse (also spelled Holborn Head) sits on a rocky headland beside the harbour village of Scrabster, near Thurso in Caithness on Scotland's north coast. The headland closes off the western side of Thurso Bay and faces the open Atlantic and the Pentland Firth.

Who built it, and what is unusual about it?

David and Thomas Stevenson, members of the family that engineered so many of Scotland's lighthouses, designed it. The Board of Trade gave approval in 1859, but worries about cost held up work until 1861. The light first shone in September 1862, although the Highland Historic Environment Record gives 1863. The tower is about 17 metres high and cost 3,900 pounds, a bill the Board of Trade queried.

The design is a "school house" type: the tower is built into the keeper's house rather than standing alone. The result looks more like a sturdy home with a tower attached than a classic freestanding column.

What happened over the years?

The light operated from 1862 until 2003. It was automated in 1988 and the keepers left; in 2003 it was judged unnecessary and permanently withdrawn. Canmore records that German aircraft bombed the site during the Second World War without damaging the buildings.

Since 28 November 1984 it has been a Category B listed building (Historic Environment Scotland ref. LB14952). The listing covers the lighthouse and keeper's house; the later keeper's house to the southwest is excluded.

Can you go inside?

No. The former keepers' flats and tower have been converted into a private home, renovated in line with the Category B status. You view the lighthouse from outside, and the headland itself makes a pleasant short outing with views over the bay and sea.

How do you get there?

The lighthouse is by Scrabster, the port just west of Thurso where the Orkney ferries sail from. It is a short drive from Thurso, so it fits easily into a wait for a ferry or a stop on the North Coast 500. Coordinates are roughly 58.615 N, 3.54 W.

When should you visit?

The headland is exposed, so weather shapes the visit. A clear day gives the best views over Thurso Bay and the Pentland Firth. In strong wind, common on this coast, dress warmly and keep clear of the cliff edge. Summer days are long, so there is good light for photos well into the evening.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed Holburn Head Lighthouse? David and Thomas Stevenson, Scottish lighthouse engineers.

Is the light still working? No. It was automated in 1988 and withdrawn from service in 2003.

Can I tour the inside? No, the building is a private residence. You can see it from the surrounding headland.

Why do I see two spellings? Sources use both Holburn Head and Holborn Head; they refer to the same site by Scrabster.