- Anvil Point Lighthouse is in Dorset, England.
- Check access, weather and local guidance before travelling.
About Anvil Point Lighthouse
Anvil Point Lighthouse stands on the Purbeck cliffs above Swanage Bay, a squat white tower built from local Portland stone. It remains an operational Trinity House light, with the adjoining keeper's cottages now run by the National Trust as holiday accommodation.
The story of Anvil Point Lighthouse
The lighthouse was built in 1781 by Trinity House using stone quarried from the nearby cliffs, and was originally lit by oil lamps backed by polished reflectors. It was electrified in 1960 and automated in 1972, the keepers withdrawn and the cottages converted. The tower's light, visible for 18 nautical miles, continues to guide vessels along the Dorset coast and around the hazardous approaches to Weymouth and the Isle of Wight.
Visiting with care
The lighthouse itself is closed to the public but can be viewed from the coastal path running along the cliffs from Durlston Country Park. The National Trust keeper's cottages are available as self-catering holiday lets, offering an unusual way to stay beside a working light.
Interesting facts
- Built in 1781 from locally quarried Portland stone.
- Originally lit by oil lamps with polished reflectors.
- Electrified in 1960 and automated in 1972.
- The keeper's cottages are National Trust holiday accommodation.
Getting there
Parking and access details — check locally for the latest information.