Strathy Point Lighthouse

Strathy Point Lighthouse sits on a lonely headland on Scotland's north coast, in Sutherland (Highland), beside the hamlet of Totegan and the village of Strathy. The lamp went dark in 2012, yet the point remains a rewarding short walk for photographers, walkers and anyone hoping to spot marine wildlife.

What is Strathy Point Lighthouse?

It is a former station of the Northern Lighthouse Board, the body that runs Scotland's lights. A light here was first suggested around 1900 but was turned down at the time. The idea returned after the Second World War, and the station was first lit in 1958 to fill a gap in coverage between Dunnet Head and Cape Wrath. It is regarded as the first Scottish lighthouse conceived from the start as fully electric. The board's engineer, P. H. Hyslop, designed the buildings, which are arranged as a hollow square with covered passages to shelter staff from the wind.

The station was automated in 1997 and monitored remotely from Edinburgh. A 2010 review of navigation aids judged it unnecessary: commercial ships pass well to the north and leisure traffic was light. The light was switched off for good on 2 March 2012. In April 2013 the property was sold, and the keepers' cottages went to private buyers.

Can you go inside?

No. The tower and cottages are privately owned, so there is no interior access. You can, however, walk out to the headland and around the outside of the grounds. Driving down the private road to the lighthouse is not allowed.

How do you get there?

Drive to Totegan, next to Strathy, on the north coast road (the NC500 route passes close by). A small car park lies on the left, opposite the old chapel, where the road to the point begins. It fills quickly in season. From there the walk takes about 20 minutes, mostly along a tarmac private road. For the return you can choose a grassy, pathless line across the headland, which can be boggy in places. Wear waterproof footwear and a windproof layer, since the exposed point is rarely calm.

What will you see?

Steep cliffs, open Atlantic and a wide sweep of the northern coastline. Because the headland juts into the sea, it ranks among the better spots in the area for watching porpoises, dolphins and sometimes whales, particularly in summer. Seabirds nest and feed along the rocks, and seals often appear offshore. Photographers like the white station buildings against the sea, especially in low evening light.

When should you visit?

Late spring to early autumn works best: long days and the highest chance of seeing marine mammals. In June, twilight in the far north lingers late, so an evening walk is easy to plan. In winter the road can be slick and the wind fierce.

Frequently asked questions

Is Strathy Point Lighthouse still working? No. It was permanently discontinued on 2 March 2012 and sold in 2013.

Can I go inside? No, the site is private. You may walk to it and around the outer walls.

How long is the walk from the car park? About 20 minutes each way, mostly on tarmac.

Can I bring my dog? The landowner asks that dogs stay at home, because sheep and lambs graze near unfenced cliff edges. If you do bring one, keep it on a lead.

Will I see whales? Chances are best in summer, but sightings depend on weather and luck. Bring binoculars.