- St John's Point Lighthouse is in County Down, Northern Ireland.
- Tallest onshore lighthouse in Ireland
- Check access, weather and local guidance before travelling.
About St John's Point Lighthouse
St John's Point Lighthouse stands on a headland in County Down, the tallest onshore lighthouse in Ireland, and is famed for its striking yellow and black colour scheme. It guides vessels along the southern approaches to Belfast Lough and Strangford Lough.
The story of St John's Point Lighthouse
The lighthouse was built in 1844 by George Halpin Senior for the Commissioners of Irish Lights, and the 40-metre tower makes it the tallest onshore lighthouse in Ireland. The distinctive yellow and black bands were added later to improve its visibility as a daymark. The light was automated in 1981 and remains operational. The station sits close to the entrance of Strangford Lough, one of Europe's most important marine conservation areas, and the surrounding coast featured in the television series Game of Thrones.
Visiting with care
The lighthouse stands on a quiet headland reached by minor roads from Ardglass and the Lecale Peninsula, and the keeper's cottages are available as self-catering holiday accommodation. The cliff-top walks and views across the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man are especially fine on clear days.
Interesting facts
- Built in 1844 by George Halpin Senior for the Commissioners of Irish Lights.
- At 40 metres, the tallest onshore lighthouse in Ireland.
- Famous for its distinctive yellow and black banded colour scheme.
- Automated in 1981 and remains an operational aid to navigation.
Getting there
Parking and access details — check locally for the latest information.