- Lizard Lighthouse is in Cornwall, England.
- Most southerly point of mainland Britain
- Check access, weather and local guidance before travelling.
About Lizard Lighthouse
Perched at Lizard Point, the most southerly tip of mainland Britain, this Trinity House light has guided vessels around one of the coast's most feared hazards for over four centuries. A distinctive twin-towered station with an attached heritage centre, it remains an operational aid to navigation today.
The story of Lizard Lighthouse
A coal-fired light was first established here in 1619 by Sir John Killigrew, though it was soon extinguished by opposition from shipowners reluctant to pay dues. The present station was rebuilt in 1751 by Thomas Fonnereau using oil lamps and reflectors, then extensively renovated in 1812 by Robert Stevenson. Electrification came in 1924 and the lighthouse was fully automated and demanned in 1998, with keepers replaced by modern monitoring systems.
Visiting with care
The Lizard Lighthouse Heritage Centre opens seasonally and offers guided climbs of the tower with panoramic views across the English Channel. Arrive early in peak summer as the narrow lanes to Lizard Point become congested, and combine the visit with a walk along the dramatic serpentine cliffs.
Interesting facts
- It marks the most southerly point of mainland Britain at 49°57'N.
- The original 1619 light was lit with coal and fiercely opposed by local shipowners.
- It was electrified in 1924, decades before many UK stations.
- A heritage centre on site lets visitors climb the working tower.
Getting there
Parking and access details — check locally for the latest information.