Trevose Head Lighthouse, Padstow, England (with Map & Photos)

Trevose Head Lighthouse is a historic beacon perched on the rugged cliffs of Trevose Head, near Padstow on the north coast of Cornwall, England. Established in 1847, it was built to guide vessels navigating the Bristol Channel and to fill a critical gap in coastal lighting between Land's End and Lundy Island.

Trevose Head Lighthouse England
Trevose Head Lighthouse England

🏛️ History & Features

  • Construction: The lighthouse was designed by engineer James Walker and constructed by Jacob and Thomas Olver of Falmouth. It features a white cylindrical masonry tower with a balcony and lantern, attached to the keeper's house. The tower stands 27 meters (89 feet) tall, with the light positioned 62 meters above mean high water, providing visibility up to 18 nautical miles.

  • Lighting Evolution: Originally equipped with two fixed lights (a high and a low light), the low light was discontinued in 1882 due to concerns it could be mistaken for other navigational aids. In 1912, a rotating optic with a red filter was installed, displaying one short red flash every five seconds. The lighthouse was electrified in 1974 and automated in 1995, after which the red filter was removed, and the rotation speed of the optic was adjusted. In 2023, the original rotating optic was replaced with a fixed LED lantern, reducing the light's range from 21 to 18 nautical miles.​

  • Fog Signal: A foghorn was added in 1913 and remained in service until 2012, when it was decommissioned.


🌿 Visiting Trevose Head

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding area offers dramatic coastal views and is a popular spot for walking and photography. The headland is managed by the National Trust, and visitors can explore the coastal paths to discover sea views, rare plants, seabirds, and marine wildlife.

For those interested in staying nearby, the former keepers' cottages have been converted into holiday accommodations, offering a unique experience of coastal living.​


📍 Getting There

Trevose Head is best accessed by car via the B3276 between Padstow and Newquay. From the parking area, it's a short scenic walk to the lighthouse. The area is part of the South West Coast Path, making it an excellent spot for walking and birdwatching, with the chance to see seabirds and, occasionally, seals and dolphins.
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Trevose Head Lighthouse Map