Rue Point Lighthouse

Rue Point Lighthouse marks the southern tip of Rathlin Island, in the Causeway Coast and Glens district of Northern Ireland. The small octagonal concrete tower is the youngest of the island's three lighthouses and guards the approach to the channel between Rathlin and the mainland.

What makes Rue Point different?

Rathlin has three lighthouses: Rathlin West, Rathlin East and Rue Point, also known as the South Light. The first two date from the mid-1800s, while Rue Point was the last one built. The present structure went up in 1921, and its concrete construction reflects the period just after the First World War. Charles William Scott designed it. All three lighthouse complexes on the island have been given listed-building status by Northern Ireland's Department for Communities.

How did it come about?

Master mariners and the Derry Chamber of Commerce pressed for a light at the southern end of the island. In 1914 the Commissioners of Irish Lights recommended an unwatched light, and Trinity House approved the plan that same year. The war delayed a permanent building, so in late 1915 a temporary flashing light was set up for the Admiralty. A fog signal followed in 1917, but the fog gun proved unreliable and was withdrawn on 1 January 1931, moving to Barr Point at the mouth of Larne Lough. Two keepers lived at the station in a wooden hut.

What changed later?

The light was electrified on 9 October 1965 and has since operated without resident keepers, monitored remotely from Rathlin East and powered by batteries charged from diesel alternators. A new lantern was fitted in 2004, and Irish Lights later planned mains power with battery backup and an LED source, while keeping the historic lenses.

How do you get to Rue Point?

Ferries run to Rathlin from Ballycastle on the Antrim coast. Rue Point lies at the opposite end of the island from the harbour, so allow for a long walk or a local transfer once you land. Plan a full day on the island and check the return sailing times.

When should you visit?

Late spring to early autumn is easiest, with more frequent ferries and long daylight. The tower is best seen from outside against open sea, ideally in evening light.

Frequently asked questions

When was Rue Point Lighthouse built? The present tower dates from 1921, though a temporary light was already working in 1915.

Is it a listed building? Yes. It is protected together with Rathlin's other two lighthouses.

Do keepers live there? No. Since electrification in 1965 it has run automatically, monitored from Rathlin East.

Who operates it? The Commissioners of Irish Lights.