Cromer Lighthouse

Cromer Lighthouse sits on high ground just south-east of the centre of Cromer, on the North Norfolk coast in eastern England. It is a working light run by Trinity House, and its octagonal tower is one of the best-known landmarks along this stretch of shoreline.

What is the story behind it?

The present tower went up in 1833, built by Trinity House on the Cromer Ridge, the line of low hills running along the coast. It replaced a brick lighthouse from 1719, put up by Edward Browne of Ipswich, which was lost to cliff erosion. Earlier still, a 1669 patent produced a tower at Cromer that was never properly lit because its backer could not afford the fuel; it still appeared on charts as a daymark.

How tall is it?

The tower itself is around 18 m (59 ft), but because it stands on elevated ground the light sits roughly 84 m (276 ft) above sea level. That height is why the lighthouse is visible from far out to sea and from many of the roads around the town. Sources give slightly differing figures, so treat these as approximate.

How has it changed over time?

The lighthouse was converted to electric power in 1958 and automated in June 1990, so no keepers live there today. According to Wikipedia, the drum lens in use from 1958 was replaced by an LED light source in 2025.

Is it a listed building?

Yes. Historic England lists Cromer Lighthouse at Grade II (list entry 1171781), a status it has held since 21 January 1977. The listed address is Overstrand Road, Cromer.

Getting there and when to go

The lighthouse stands on the edge of Cromer along the road towards Overstrand, a short trip from the pier and the town centre. It pairs well with a walk along the clifftop coast. Because it is an operational station, interior access is not a regular attraction, so check Trinity House for current information before you travel. The tower is easy to see and photograph from outside in any season, with clear skies giving the best shots.

Frequently asked questions

When was the current Cromer Lighthouse built? In 1833, by Trinity House.

Who runs it? Trinity House, the authority responsible for aids to navigation at sea.

Is it a protected building? Yes, it is Grade II listed by Historic England, and has been since 1977.

Does a keeper live there? No. The station has been automatic since 1990.

Why did the earlier lighthouse disappear? It fell victim to cliff erosion, a continuing problem on the Norfolk coast.