Newhaven East Pier Light

Newhaven East Pier Light marks the seaward end of the eastern breakwater at Newhaven harbour in East Sussex, on England's south coast. Its green light guides ferries, fishing boats and yachts into the mouth of the River Ouse from the English Channel.

What is the East Pier Light?

It is a harbour light standing at the tip of the east pier, the breakwater that shelters the harbour entrance. It sits at roughly 50.780 N, 0.060 E. Don't confuse it with the lights of the same name in Newhaven, Edinburgh, or with the separate light on the west pier.

How has the light changed over time?

A wooden lattice tower about 12 metres high went up on the pier end in the 1880s (1883 in some accounts). In 1928 a steel lattice tower of similar height took its place, showing a flashing green light. Vandalism plagued the structure, demolition was proposed in 2002, and after a reprieve the tower came down around 2006. Today the light is carried on a slim white pole banded in green.

What does the light look like?

The current light is green and flashing, with a range of about six nautical miles. Green is the colour used on the starboard side of the entrance channel when you head into port, so it forms part of the harbour's wider marking system.

Can you walk out to it?

Until 2002 the public could walk along the breakwater to the light. The port authority has since closed that access, so you cannot reach the pier end. The light is still visible from the shore and the surrounding waterfront.

What else is nearby?

Newhaven is a ferry port with sailings to Dieppe in France, and Newhaven Fort overlooks the harbour entrance. A stroll along the seafront and beach gives a clear view of the breakwater and its light, and the Seven Sisters cliffs and the town of Seaford are a short drive away.

When should you visit?

Choose a clear day between late spring and early autumn. At dusk the green light stands out against the darkening sea, which suits long-exposure photography.

Frequently asked questions

Can I walk onto the east breakwater at Newhaven? No. The port authority closed public access in 2002.

What colour is the light? Green and flashing, visible for around six nautical miles.

Is this the same lighthouse as the one in Edinburgh? No. Edinburgh's Newhaven has its own cast-iron lights; this one is in East Sussex.

Is the old tower still standing? No. The 1928 steel tower was replaced by a white pole with green bands.