Poolbeg Lighthouse Travel Guide

Poolbeg Lighthouse, an iconic structure painted a distinctive red, has stood at the mouth of the River Liffey since 1768. Originally built to guide ships into Dublin Port, it was initially powered by candles, reportedly the first lighthouse in the world to use candlepower. It was converted to oil in 1786 and then redesigned into its current form in 1820.The lighthouse is located at the end of the Great South Wall, also known as the South Bull Wall. This remarkable feat of engineering, constructed between 1748 and 1795, extends nearly 4 miles into Dublin Bay and was once one of the longest sea walls in the world. Walking along the wall to the lighthouse offers stunning views of Dublin Bay, the Dublin Mountains, and the Irish Sea.The Poolbeg Peninsula, created by the construction of the Great South Wall, is also home to the Irishtown Nature Park and the Poolbeg power station, with its landmark chimneys. The lighthouse and the Great South Wall are popular destinations for walkers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a breath of fresh sea air.