Morecambe Pier Light

Morecambe Pier Light is a small octagonal sandstone lighthouse at the seaward end of the Stone Jetty in Morecambe, Lancashire. It sits on the town's seafront facing Morecambe Bay and is among the oldest structures on the waterfront.

What is it, and why was it built?

The railway company North Western Railway built the Stone Jetty in 1853 as a wharf and rail terminal for passengers and cargo. The lighthouse was added soon after the station building, on the sea side of the terminal. It is about 11 metres (36 ft) tall, made of rock-faced sandstone, with a white-painted cap and finial on the lantern. The design is credited to Thomas Stevenson, a member of the famous lighthouse-engineering family.

What happened to the harbour?

When the port of Heysham opened in 1904, traffic at Morecambe Harbour dropped quickly, and the railway yard here closed in 1932. In 1994-95 the jetty was refurbished and partly rebuilt as part of a wider seafront scheme that included sea defences. The former station building next to the lighthouse now works as a cafe.

Is it a listed building?

Yes. Historic England lists the former station building and the lighthouse together as one Grade II entry, dated 20 January 1993. The lighthouse has no separate entry of its own.

What else is nearby?

The jetty is a pleasant short walk towards the water. It carries artworks and pavement games from the Tern project, installed during the 1990s rebuild. Just along the promenade stands the Midland Hotel, an Art Deco landmark listed at Grade II*. From the end of the jetty you get wide views over the bay and, on clear days, towards the Lake District hills.

How do I get there?

The lighthouse is on the central Morecambe promenade, at roughly 54.0745 N, 2.8785 W. It is a few minutes' walk from Morecambe railway station. Access to the jetty is open, and the lighthouse itself is viewed from outside.

When should I visit?

Pick a clear day for the best views across the bay. Evenings often bring strong sunsets over Morecambe Bay, and the walk combines easily with a stroll along the prom. Bring a windproof layer, as the end of the jetty is exposed.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go inside the lighthouse? No, it is a listed structure seen from outside. The building beside it houses a cafe.

Is there an entry fee for the Stone Jetty? No. The jetty is part of the public seafront and free to walk.

Who designed the lighthouse? Thomas Stevenson is credited with the design. It dates from the 1850s, shortly after the station building.

How long should I allow? Twenty to thirty minutes covers the jetty and the lighthouse. Add time for the Tern artworks and the Midland Hotel nearby.