Toward Point Lighthouse

Toward Point Lighthouse guards the southern tip of the Cowal peninsula near the village of Toward in Argyll and Bute, western Scotland. Built in 1812, it is among the oldest lights on the Firth of Clyde and marks the spot where Loch Striven opens into the estuary.

What is this place?

The tower was designed by Robert Stevenson, a member of the engineering family behind many of Scotland's lighthouses, for the Cumbrae Lighthouse Trust, the body responsible for lighting the Clyde shipping lanes. It is a tapering round tower of dressed stone, about 19 metres tall. A local landowner, James Lamont of Knockdow, is credited with supplying labour, stone and timber.

Since 1980 the lighthouse has been a Category B listed building on the Historic Environment Scotland register.

How did the light change over time?

The first lamps burned oil. In 1930 a new optical system, recommended by members of the Stevenson family, was fitted; the same design later appeared at several Northern Lighthouse Board stations. Automation came in the second half of the 20th century, with sources giving either 1969 or 1974.

A white building on the shore once housed the fog signal, driven first by steam and later by diesel engines. It was switched off in the 1990s. Control passed in 1966 to the Clyde Port Authority, successor to the earlier trusts.

What will you see nearby?

The headland offers broad views over the Firth of Clyde and the islands across the water, with the mainland coast visible on clear days. You also get the tower itself and the former keepers' buildings. The cottages were sold in 2012; some are now a private home, and one source says others are let as holiday accommodation.

How do you get there?

Toward lies at the southern end of Cowal, roughly 8 miles south of Dunoon. From Glasgow, drive to the Clyde ferry crossing (for example Gourock to Dunoon) and continue along the coastal road. Public transport is limited, so a car is the practical choice.

Frequently asked questions

When was Toward Point Lighthouse built? In 1812, to a design by Robert Stevenson.

Can you climb the tower? We found no official information on tours of the interior. The site is in operational use and surrounded by buildings, so check current access rules with the operator or the local council before you go.

Is the lighthouse staffed? No. It is automated, and the keepers' cottages were sold in 2012.

Who owns it? The Clyde Port Authority, successor to the Cumbrae Lighthouse Trust and the Clyde Lighthouses Trust.

Is it a protected building? Yes, it is a Category B listed building on the Historic Environment Scotland register.