- Muckle Flugga Lighthouse is in Shetland, Scotland.
- Most northerly point in the UK
- Check access, weather and local guidance before travelling.
About Muckle Flugga Lighthouse
Muckle Flugga Lighthouse stands on a rocky islet off Unst in Shetland, at the most northerly point of the British Isles. Built by the Stevensons, it marks the northern approaches to Britain and overlooks some of the wildest seas in the country.
The story of Muckle Flugga Lighthouse
The lighthouse was built in 1858 by brothers Thomas and David Stevenson, Robert's sons, and was originally commissioned to improve safety for naval vessels during the Crimean War. It was first lit on 1 January 1858, the northernmost lighthouse in Britain. The 20-metre tower stands on a precipitous rock off Hermaness and was built with considerable difficulty owing to the exposed position and Atlantic gales. The lighthouse was automated in 1995, when the last keepers were withdrawn from one of the most remote manned stations in Britain.
Visiting with care
Muckle Flugga cannot be landed on, but it can be seen from the Hermaness National Nature Reserve at the north-western tip of Unst, a superb cliff walk through great skua and gannet colonies. The nearby Out Stack, just north of the lighthouse, is the most northerly point of land in Britain.
Interesting facts
- Built in 1858 by Thomas and David Stevenson during the Crimean War.
- Stands at the most northerly point of the British Isles.
- The 20-metre tower was built on an almost inaccessible rock.
- Automated in 1995, ending one of Britain's remotest keepers' postings.
Getting there
Parking and access details — check locally for the latest information.