Start Point Lighthouse

Start Point Lighthouse sits on the Start Point headland in Devon, in the parish of Stokenham in the South Hams district on England's south coast. It is a working Trinity House light and one of the most atmospheric stops on this stretch of coast, perched above the cliffs not far from the villages of Torcross and Beesands.

What is it, and when was it built?

Trinity House engineer James Walker designed the lighthouse, and it was completed in 1836 to guard shipping rounding the headland. The tower is granite, topped with a cast-iron lantern under a copper roof. Historic England listed it at Grade II in 1991, and the neighbouring well house and old piggery from the same period carry the same grade.

How has it changed over time?

The first light proved weak in fog, so a fog signal was added. It began as a bell driven by machinery in a building beside the cliff, and in 1877 a siren took over. The bell then moved to the Plymouth Breakwater lighthouse. Erosion later undermined the fog signal building, which collapsed around 1989 or 1990. Since then an electric signal has sounded from the tower's gallery.

The lighthouse was automated in 1993 and is now monitored from the Trinity House control centre in Essex. In 2018 an LED lantern replaced the rotating optic, and the old lens is displayed in the visitor centre.

Can you visit?

Yes. The lighthouse opens to visitors in the summer months, with a small exhibition on its history at the site. Hours vary by season, so check the Trinity House website before you go. The approach follows the South West Coast Path, so wear sturdy footwear.

When should you go, and what should you wear?

Summer is easiest: the lighthouse is open and the days are long. The headland is exposed to wind and rain, so pack a warm layer and a waterproof even on a bright day. The views take in cliffs and the open English Channel.

What else is nearby?

The coast path links the lighthouse with Beesands, Torcross and Start Bay, which makes it a good anchor for a full day's walk with a lunch stop in one of the seaside villages.

Frequently asked questions

Who owns Start Point Lighthouse? Trinity House, the authority responsible for navigation aids around the coasts of England and Wales.

Is it still in service? Yes. It has run automatically since 1993 and is controlled remotely from Essex.

Is the lighthouse a listed building? Yes. Historic England has listed it at Grade II since 1991.

Is this the same as Start Point Lighthouse in Orkney? No. A different lighthouse with the same name stands on Sanday in Orkney. This one is in Devon, in southern England.