West Usk Lighthouse

West Usk Lighthouse is a former lighthouse near Newport in South Wales, first lit in 1821 at the mouth of the River Usk where it meets the Severn Estuary. It is a Grade II listed building, and today it takes overnight guests as a bed and breakfast. You will find it by the village of St Brides Wentlooge, on the flat Wentlooge Level just south of the city.

What is West Usk Lighthouse?

The tower was designed by James Walker, consultant engineer to Trinity House, the body that runs lighthouses in England and Wales. Ben Batchelor and John Williams of Newport did the building work. The first light was shown in December 1821. Coflein, the Welsh national heritage record, calls it Walker's earliest lighthouse; he went on to design roughly twenty more.

The tower stands about 17 metres tall (sources quote 16.76 or 17 m). It originally rose from an island, until the surrounding land was reclaimed in the mid-1800s. Accounts disagree on the exact date, naming either around 1850 or 1856.

What happened after it stopped working?

The light was out of use by 1922. During the Second World War the building served as a lookout. It was refurbished in the late 1960s, then bought and restored in 1987. The original lantern room had been removed, and a replica now sits on top.

Cadw, the Welsh historic environment service, listed it on 22 June 1990 as a former lighthouse (entry 3081, amended in 1996).

What can you see there?

The main attraction is the tower itself, standing alone on open, level ground beside the estuary, with wide water views toward the far shore. It suits anyone interested in lighthouses, maritime heritage or early nineteenth-century engineering.

Can you stay here?

Yes. The building operates as a guest house, described as a B&B in most sources and as a hotel in some. It is a private property, so there is no drop-in tour of the interior. Check rates and availability with the owners directly.

When should you visit?

The tower can be seen at any time of year. Clear days give the best views across the estuary and the best photographs. The wind off the water can be sharp, so bring a warm layer outside summer.

Frequently asked questions

When was West Usk Lighthouse built? It was first lit in December 1821.

Who designed it? James Walker, consultant to Trinity House. It was his first lighthouse.

Is the light still in use? No. It was decommissioned by 1922 and the building now serves as accommodation.

Is the building protected? Yes. It has been Grade II listed by Cadw since 1990.