Visiting the lighthouses in Ireland makes for a unique experience. This article lists some of the top and most notable lighthouses you can explore.
Lighthouses are built for a purpose. But somehow, they have become somewhat of an attraction themselves. In Ireland, there are notably a few must-see lighthouses that are worth exploring – both for their history and the architecture in itself. If you love to visit lighthouses, do not forget to include any of the following must-see lighthouses during your trip to Ireland.
Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse
This particular lighthouse was built in 1853. It is famous for being situated in one of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal areas, which is Old Head in County Kerry. The area near the lighthouse was developed into one of the most prestigious gold courses there is in the world. The 19th century lighthouse was overseen until the year 1987 wherein they switched into automated controls. The lighthouse is also the nearest spot of land from the historically famous shipwreck of the RMS Lusitania during 1915. The tragic incident killed 1,119 people (out of 1,924 passengers).
Hook Lighthouse
This lighthouse is famous and a must-see in Ireland because this is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world, not just in Ireland. The lighthouse was built in 1210. However, many stories suggest that a missionary monk named Dubhan might have established a beacon in the area around the 5th century.
The term Dubhan literally means fishing hook in Irish language; which is why the lighthouse was later named Hook. The lighthouse was built to fortify the coastal defense of the Waterford Harbour in Ireland. Further sealing its reputation as one of the top lighthouses in Ireland, Hook Lighthouse was ranked number one by the website Lonely Planet in their list of “”Top 10 Flashiest Lighthouses”.
The Baily Lighthouse
This lighthouse is famous among tourists for its amazing view. The lighthouse sits atop a rocky promontory overlooking the Dublin Bay. The location of the lighthouse is also historic; historians believe this was the same location wherein the Norse Vikings fled to following the Battle of Clontarf in 1014. In addition to the Dublin Bay, you can get a view of the main shipping channel of Dublin and Britain with the rest of Europe. The lighthouse (its current status) was rebuilt in 1814. After the shipwreck involving Queen Victoria, they also added the fog bell to the lighthouse. The lighthouse was transformed into automatic operation in 1996.
Harbour Lighthouse
This lighthouse is located in Howth, County Dublin. It was built during the early 19th century for defensive purposes. In fact, the strong circular wall surrounding the lighthouse defends a gun position. Next to the lighthouse is a small Georgian style building – this is the house of the lighthouse keeper.
Shrove Lighthouse
Completing this list of must-see lighthouses in Ireland is Shrove Lighthouse located in Shrove, County Donegal. This is another early 19th century lighthouse that is situated on a picturesque location near the spot where Lough Foyle joins into the Atlantic Ocean. This shipping lane is famous for transporting immigrants to America and Australia. There are also numerous shipwrecks near the area due to its rocky and rugged coast. Formerly, the lighthouse was manned by three lighthouse keepers but today it is completely automated.