Vaternish Lighthouse

Vaternish Lighthouse sits on Waternish Point, the north-western tip of the Waternish peninsula on the Isle of Skye, in the Highland council area of Scotland. You will also see it called Waternish Point Lighthouse. It is a small, remote light with no road access, so reaching it means a half-day walk across open moorland and clifftops, with sea views and a chance of spotting whales or dolphins.

What is the history of Vaternish Lighthouse?

The first tower dates from 1924 and was designed by the engineers David and Charles Stevenson, members of the family behind many of Scotland's lighthouses. The original lens was later given to the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, where it is on display.

A replacement tower followed in 1980. It has a concrete base, an aluminium lantern room and a roof made of glass-reinforced plastic. Solar panels have powered the light since 2001, which cuts the need for routine visits. The Northern Lighthouse Board operates it, and it shows a white flash every 20 seconds.

A note on dates: some listings give 1980 as the founding year, while others say 1924. The difference comes from the original tower versus the present one. Heritage records also suggest it is better described as a minor navigation light than a conventional lighthouse.

How do you get to Vaternish Lighthouse?

No public road leads to the light. The walk starts at the old church at Trumpan, where there is a car park, plus space opposite the burial ground. No public transport serves the start, so you will need a car.

Walkers' accounts put the round trip at roughly 11 to 13.5 km, taking 4 to 5 hours. The outward track can be very boggy, and the last stretch to the point crosses grassy, heathery ground with no clear path. The return along the clifftops is usually firmer and drier. Take OS Explorer map 407, and a GPS is useful in poor visibility.

What will you see at Waternish Point?

The tower itself is modest, but the appeal is the setting: open sea, steep coastline and a real sense of isolation. The point is regarded as a good spot for watching whales and dolphins. Part of the route crosses working croft land, and the crofter asks that dogs are kept on a lead.

When should you go?

Pick a dry day with good visibility, ideally after several days without rain so the approach is less muddy. Wear waterproof boots and carry water and food, as there are no facilities along the way. Leave plenty of daylight for the walk back.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside Vaternish Lighthouse?

No. It is an operational light run by the Northern Lighthouse Board, and visitors view it from outside.

Can you drive to the lighthouse?

No. You park at Trumpan and walk the rest.

How long is the walk?

Usually 4 to 5 hours return, depending on your pace and ground conditions.

Where is the original lens?

In the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, which received it after the tower was replaced.