Ardnamurchan Lighthouse: Scotland’s Most Westerly Beacon
Discover Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, the iconic beacon at Britain’s western edge, where history meets breathtaking coastal panoramas and rich wildlife.
Ardnamurchan Lighthouse stands proudly at the most westerly point of the British mainland, guiding ships since 1849. Designed by Alan Stevenson with influences from Ancient Egyptian architecture, this iconic granite tower offers sweeping panoramic views of the Small Isles and Inner Hebrides. The site includes a visitor centre, café, gift shop, and accessible foghorn viewing platform, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventurers alike.
A brief summary to Ardnamurchan Lighthouse
- Ardnamurchan Point, Acharacle, Kilchoan, PH36 4LN, GB
- +441972510210
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Purchase lighthouse tour tickets in advance at the café to secure your spot, as tours run every 30 minutes and involve climbing over 300 steps.
- Visit on a clear day for spectacular views reaching as far as Skye and the Uists, enhancing your experience of the panoramic landscape.
- Blue badge holders can arrange vehicle drop-off near the foghorn viewing platform to ease access, as some gravel paths remain challenging.
- Combine your visit with nearby natural attractions like Sanna Bay and the Ardnamurchan Natural History Visitor Centre for a fuller day of exploration.
- Respect the narrow lighthouse causeway’s traffic signals and avoid overnight parking, as the site has limited space and strict regulations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Kilchoan, the lighthouse is approximately 10 km west via a steep, winding single-track road. Allow 20–30 minutes for the journey. Parking is available onsite but overnight parking is prohibited.
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Ferry and Car
From Fort William, take the Corran Ferry to Ardgour, then drive approximately 1.5 hours to Ardnamurchan Lighthouse. Alternatively, from the Isle of Mull, use the Tobermory to Kilchoan CalMac Ferry, then drive 10 km west to the lighthouse. Ferry schedules vary seasonally; check in advance.
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Walking
For experienced hikers, walking routes around the peninsula offer access to the lighthouse area, though terrain is rugged and paths are unpaved. Expect 3–5 hours depending on start point and fitness level.
Ardnamurchan Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Ardnamurchan Lighthouse
A Storied Beacon on Scotland’s Wild West Coast
Ardnamurchan Lighthouse was established in 1849 by renowned engineer Alan Stevenson, a member of the famous Stevenson family of lighthouse builders. The lighthouse’s design uniquely incorporates architectural features inspired by Ancient Egyptian motifs, lending it a distinctive and timeless elegance. Positioned at the most westerly point of the British mainland, it has long served as a vital navigational aid for vessels traversing the often treacherous waters of Scotland’s west coast. The lighthouse’s history is rich with tales of resilience: during a violent storm in 1852, lightning struck the tower, damaging windows and walls, while the surrounding sea washed away parts of the boundary wall and road. Despite such challenges, the lighthouse has stood steadfast, transitioning to automated operation in 1988 and continuing to be remotely monitored from Edinburgh.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Today, Ardnamurchan Lighthouse is a vibrant visitor attraction managed by the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Trust, a community-led organization dedicated to preserving the site’s heritage. Visitors can explore the visitor centre, enjoy refreshments at the Stables Coffee Shop, and browse the gift shop housed in the historic stable block built from local stone. The lighthouse tower itself is accessible via a spiral stone staircase with over 300 steps, culminating in breathtaking views that stretch as far as Skye and the Uists on clear days. Guided tours run regularly, offering insights into the lighthouse’s operation, history, and the surrounding natural environment. While the tower is not wheelchair accessible, the foghorn viewing platform has been improved for wheelchair and pushchair users, though some gravel terrain may pose challenges.Natural Wonders and Wildlife Spotting
The location offers spectacular panoramic vistas across the Inner Hebrides and the Small Isles, making it a prime spot for wildlife watching. From the lighthouse and surrounding viewpoints, visitors often glimpse dolphins, whales, seals, basking sharks, and otters. The area’s geology is equally fascinating, shaped by one of Britain’s last volcanic eruptions some 60 million years ago, with visible lava flow patterns and a unique microclimate supporting rare plant species.Access and Surrounding Attractions
Access to Ardnamurchan Lighthouse is via a scenic, winding single-track road approximately 10 km west of Kilchoan. Public transport options are limited, with no direct service to the lighthouse; visitors typically arrive by car or ferry connections from Fort William or the Isle of Mull. Parking is available adjacent to the coffee shop and in an upper lot, though overnight parking is prohibited. Nearby attractions include Sanna Bay with its white sandy beach and stunning views, the Ardnamurchan Natural History Visitor Centre in Glenborrodale, and walking routes such as the challenging 'Ring of Fire' volcanic trail. The peninsula’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a rewarding destination for day trips and extended exploration.Community Stewardship and Conservation
The Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Trust, formed in 1996 and strengthened by a community asset transfer in 2020, manages the site with a focus on sustainability and education. The Trust promotes awareness of the region’s maritime history, geology, and wildlife, while maintaining the lighthouse complex as a social enterprise and visitor hub. Efforts continue to improve accessibility and preserve the delicate coastal environment, ensuring that Ardnamurchan remains a treasured landmark for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Colonsay Whale
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Arduaine Garden
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Tigh-na-sleubhaich
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Ardmore Point
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Glengorm Castle
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Port na Ba
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Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse
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Historic 1857 lighthouse on a scenic islet north of Tobermory, offering stunning coastal views and rich maritime heritage on the Isle of Mull.
Tobermory Lighthouse
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Langamull Beach
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A pristine white-sand beach hidden on Mull's north-west coast, where turquoise waters and dramatic coastal views reward the scenic walk.
Memorial to Robert John Brown
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Isle of Mull Cheese and Spirit
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Discover the award-winning Isle of Mull cheese and spirit at Sgriob-ruadh Farm’s charming Glass Barn café and shop, where tradition meets sustainability.
An Camus
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Mull Pottery
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MacDonald Arms Hotel
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The Mull Museum
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Tobermory Chocolate
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Tobermory Distillery Visitor Centre
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Essential places to dine
The Galleon Bistro Tobermory
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Spice of Mull
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Experience authentic Indian, Bangladeshi, Thai, and Chinese flavors in a cozy Tobermory setting with stunning harbor views.
Am Birlinn
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An Cala Ciuin
15.2 km
Traditional Scottish hospitality with harbour views and hearty fare in the heart of Tobermory’s historic Mishnish Hotel.
Cafe Fish, Upper Floor, The Pier, Tobermory
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Experience Tobermory’s freshest seafood with stunning harbour views at the acclaimed Cafe Fish on the Isle of Mull.
Macgochans
15.3 km
Waterfront gastropub with stunning bay views, fresh Scottish seafood, and warm Hebridean hospitality.
Hebridean Lodge
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The Whitehouse Restaurant
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An intimate fine dining haven in Lochaline serving innovative Scottish cuisine with fresh, local, and foraged ingredients in a historic coastal setting.
The Chlachain Inn
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The Shed
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Ninth Wave Restaurant
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The Creel Seafood Bar
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Restaurant at the Duisdale
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Restaurant at the Isle of Eriska
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EE-USK
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glengorm Gardens and Florist
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Hargreaves Bros
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Discover timeless craftsmanship and expert clock repair at Hargreaves Bros, Tobermory’s cherished watch shop on the Isle of Mull.
Co-op Food - Tobermory
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Island Blue Tobermory
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Isle Of Mull Soap Co Ltd
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Discover handmade natural soaps and eco-friendly gifts crafted with care in the heart of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Island Crafts
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Glassy Candles of Mull
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Tobermory Antiques & Collectibles
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Tobermory Stores
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Tobermory Corner Shop
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Trekomory Breeze
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Seafare
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Premier
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Hasn Candle Company
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Craignure SPAR and Post Office
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Auld Mull Bar
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The Tobermory Hotel
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Western Isles Hotel
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Macnamara & Bothin Bar
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Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa
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Craignure Inn
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Snack Bar
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The Keel Row
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Bunessan Inn
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Bar Am Praban
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Markie Dans
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The Tartan Tavern
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Cellar Bar
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Lorne Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Jura Brewery
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
