Find out all about the lighthouses at Whitby, Yorkshire. Information about the harbour and pier lighthouses and the Whitby 'high light' lighthouse at Ling Hill. Where to visit, facts and figures...
The main lighthouse in Whitby is built outside of Whitby town, to the south of the town at Ling Hill. It is known as Whitby High Light.
It is a traditional-looking, white-washed lighthouse, with an octagonal tower. It's not as tall as most lighthouses - in fact, you might be surprised at how short it actually looks! This is probably due to the fact that it is already on top of a tall cliff, with quite a commanding view of the seas.
Sadly, this lighthouse is NOT open to the public, as it is still operational. However, 2 of the lighthouse keepers' cottages adjoining the lighthouse are available for holiday lets.
As well as the 'traditional-style' lighthouse at Ling Hill, there are lighthouses, of a kind, positioned as navigational aids, at the entrance to the harbour.
These are perhaps not 'traditional' white-washed lighthouses as you might recognise them, but they are illuminated navigational aids, and are interesting in their own right.
These lighthouses are positioned on the East and West piers in Whitby - so are very easily accessed from the town - one is even open for tourists during the summer months.
To find out more about the Whitby lighthouses, click the links below:
This is the main, 'traditionally styled', white-washed Whitby lighthouse, just outside of the town at Ling Hill. It is currently operational, and therefore not open to the public - but the adjoining cottages are available for holiday lets...
Whitby 'High Light' Lighthouse Facts and Figures...
Where?
Ling Hill, outside Whitby
When?
Built 1858 to a design by James Walker
History
Originally there was also a 'South Light', with a tower 66 ft high
This was closed in 1890, and alterations made to the current lighthouse to make the lighting more efficient, so the 'High Light' became the main lighthouse here.
The lighthouse was electrified in 1976
The lighthouse was fully automated in 1992
Facts and Figures
Height: 13m (44ft)
Height of light above mean high water: 73m
Range of Light:
White Light: 18 nautical miles
White Light: 16 nautical miles
Current Use
The lighthouse is operated and run by Trinity House
There is no working fog horn
Whitby 'high light' lighthouse is not open to the public
2 lighthouse cottages are available as holiday lets. These adjoin the lighthouse (you do not stay in the lighthouse tower itself). These look lovely places to stay, in a beautiful, cliff-top location - quiet and away from it all, but with easy access to all the attractions of Whitby, and the area...