Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse: A Historic Beacon on the Isle of Mull
Historic 1857 lighthouse on a scenic islet north of Tobermory, offering stunning coastal views and rich maritime heritage on the Isle of Mull.
Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse, built in 1857 by the famed Stevenson family, stands on a small islet north of Tobermory, Isle of Mull. Known as 'Stranger’s Point' in Gaelic, this white masonry tower with a black lantern offers stunning coastal views. Automated since 1960, the lighthouse remains a captivating landmark accessible only by foot or boat, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and seascapes.
A brief summary to Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse
- Rubha nan Gall, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for the 2 km coastal walk to the lighthouse, as the path can be uneven and exposed to weather.
- Bring a camera or binoculars to fully appreciate the panoramic seascapes and wildlife around the lighthouse.
- Visit during daylight hours for the best views and to safely explore the surrounding cliffs and shoreline.
- Respect the private ownership of the former keepers’ cottages; access is limited to the lighthouse and surrounding paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
A scenic 2 km coastal footpath from Tobermory offers access to Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse. The walk takes approximately 40 to 60 minutes one way over uneven terrain, suitable for moderately fit walkers. No vehicle access is available, and the path can be exposed to weather conditions.
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Boat
Local boat operators provide tours and transfers to the lighthouse from Tobermory harbor. Trips typically last 15 to 30 minutes each way, weather permitting. Booking in advance is recommended, with prices ranging from £15 to £30 per person.
Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse
Engineering Legacy and Historical Significance
Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse was constructed in 1857 by David and Thomas Stevenson, members of the renowned Stevenson family of lighthouse engineers. Serving as a vital maritime beacon, it marks the southern side of the northwestern entrance to the Sound of Mull. The lighthouse was manned by keepers for over a century until its automation in 1960, reflecting the evolution of lighthouse technology and maritime safety practices in Scotland.Architectural Features and Setting
The lighthouse features a 19-metre white-painted masonry tower topped by a distinctive black lantern room. It is uniquely situated on a small islet connected to the shore and the former keepers’ cottages by a bridge. The name 'Rubha nan Gall' translates to 'Stranger’s Point' in Scottish Gaelic, evoking the lighthouse’s role as a sentinel for unfamiliar vessels navigating the rugged coastline.Natural Environment and Scenic Vistas
Nestled amid dramatic cliffs and expansive seascapes, the lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Sound of Mull and beyond. The remote location enhances its tranquil and scenic ambience, making it a favored spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the rugged beauty of the Hebrides.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Visitors can reach Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse only by a 2-kilometre coastal footpath or by boat, as there is no road access. This seclusion adds to the sense of adventure and discovery. The former keepers’ cottages nearby are privately owned, preserving the site’s historical character. The area is ideal for peaceful walks and appreciating the maritime heritage of the Isle of Mull.Conservation and Cultural Heritage
The lighthouse stands as a protected heritage site, embodying the maritime history of Scotland’s west coast. Its preservation highlights the importance of maintaining navigational aids that have safeguarded seafarers for generations. The site also contributes to local cultural identity and offers insights into 19th-century lighthouse engineering.Legacy of the Stevenson Family
The Stevensons, a dynasty of lighthouse engineers, left an indelible mark on Scotland’s coastal safety. Rubha nan Gall is a testament to their expertise and dedication, showcasing traditional lighthouse design and construction. Their work continues to inspire admiration for maritime engineering and Scotland’s nautical heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tobermory Clock Tower
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Barcaldine Castle
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St John's Scottish Episcopal Cathedral : Oban
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McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill
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Colonsay Whale
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Official end of the West Highland Way
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Celebrate the end of Scotland’s iconic West Highland Way in Fort William, where rugged mountains meet vibrant Highland culture.
Barnhill
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Tigh-na-sleubhaich
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Iconic Highland ruin nestled in a remote valley, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland’s crofting heritage on the West Highland Way.
Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn
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Kilmartin Museum
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Discover 12,000 years of history at Kilmartin Museum, where ancient artefacts meet the stunning prehistoric landscape of Kilmartin Glen.
Nether Largie Mid Cairn
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Bronze Age burial cairn at the heart of Scotland's most significant prehistoric landscape, carved with rare axehead symbols.
Nether Largie South Cairn
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Nether Largie Standing Stones
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St Conan’s Kirk
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Discover St Conan’s Kirk, a unique architectural gem blending styles and history on the tranquil shores of Loch Awe.
Steall Waterfall
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Steall Waterfall, a natural wonder in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tobermory Lighthouse
0.0 km
Discover the stunning Tobermory Lighthouse on the Isle of Mull, a historic beacon offering breathtaking views and rich maritime heritage.
Memorial to Robert John Brown
0.2 km
Explore the Memorial to Robert John Brown in Tobermory: A historic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's rich heritage.
Kilchoan - Tobermory Ferry
1.7 km
A scenic 35-minute ferry crossing linking remote Ardnamurchan with the colourful harbour town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
The Mull Museum
1.7 km
Discover the Isle of Mull’s rich history through engaging exhibits in a charming volunteer-run museum in Tobermory’s heart.
An Camus
1.7 km
Discover exquisite handcrafted glass jewelry and artwork in the tranquil setting of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Mull Pottery
1.8 km
Discover timeless handmade ceramics inspired by the Isle of Mull’s landscapes at Mull Pottery in Tobermory.
MacDonald Arms Hotel
1.9 km
Historic pub on Tobermory’s Main Street offering hearty Scottish fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy island atmosphere.
Tobermory Chocolate
1.9 km
Family-run artisan chocolate shop and café on Tobermory’s Main Street, offering handmade chocolates and scenic harbour views year-round.
Tobermory Distillery Visitor Centre
2.0 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest Isle of Mull distillery, where tradition and island spirit craft two unique single malts in a vibrant harbour setting.
Isle of Mull Cheese and Spirit
2.5 km
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.
Island Blue Gallery
2.7 km
Discover contemporary Scottish art and unique handcrafted gifts in a welcoming gallery and café near Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Aros Park
3.3 km
Explore enchanting woodland trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views just outside Tobermory in the serene Aros Park on the Isle of Mull.
Aros Waterfall
3.6 km
Discover the enchanting Aros Waterfall and serene woodland trails just outside Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Ardmore Point
4.3 km
Discover serene coastal landscapes, historic ruins, and abundant wildlife at Ardmore Point on the Isle of Mull.
Glengorm Castle
6.8 km
Experience historic Highland charm and stunning coastal views at Glengorm Castle, a serene self-catering retreat on the Isle of Mull.
Essential places to dine
Spice of Mull
1.7 km
Experience authentic Indian, Bangladeshi, Thai, and Chinese flavors in a cozy Tobermory setting with stunning harbor views.
An Cala Ciuin
1.7 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
1.7 km
Experience Tobermory’s freshest seafood with stunning harbour views at the acclaimed Cafe Fish on the Isle of Mull.
The Galleon Bistro Tobermory
1.8 km
Family-run harbour-side bistro in Tobermory offering fresh local seafood, Scottish classics, and a warm, accessible dining experience on the Isle of Mull.
Macgochans
2.1 km
Waterfront gastropub with stunning bay views, fresh Scottish seafood, and warm Hebridean hospitality.
Hebridean Lodge
2.6 km
A charming coastal restaurant near Tobermory serving fresh local seafood with stunning island views and warm hospitality.
Am Birlinn
11.1 km
Rustic charm meets fresh seafood in a cozy, contemporary setting on the scenic Isle of Mull.
The Whitehouse Restaurant
21.1 km
An intimate fine dining haven in Lochaline serving innovative Scottish cuisine with fresh, local, and foraged ingredients in a historic coastal setting.
Ninth Wave Restaurant
38.9 km
Intimate seafood dining in a historic croft on the Isle of Mull, blending local flavors with refined culinary artistry.
The Creel Seafood Bar
39.5 km
Fresh, locally caught seafood served with friendly charm near the ferry to Iona on the scenic Isle of Mull.
Restaurant at the Isle of Eriska
41.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred dining on a private Scottish island, where local flavours and historic charm meet breathtaking Highland views.
The Chlachain Inn
43.2 km
Authentic Scottish inn and seafood restaurant offering warm hospitality and cozy rooms in the heart of Mallaig’s fishing village.
EE-USK
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Fresh, locally sourced seafood served with panoramic harbor views on Oban’s historic North Pier.
Food From Argyll at the Pier
44.1 km
A vibrant café at Oban’s ferry terminal serving fresh, locally sourced Argyll produce with stunning waterfront views.
Taste of Argyll Kitchen
44.2 km
Cozy Scottish kitchen in Oban serving fresh, local dishes with a creative touch and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hargreaves Bros
1.4 km
Discover timeless craftsmanship and expert clock repair at Hargreaves Bros, Tobermory’s cherished watch shop on the Isle of Mull.
Glassy Candles of Mull
1.7 km
Discover handcrafted candles and local artisan treasures in the heart of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Tobermory Antiques & Collectibles
1.7 km
Discover unique vintage treasures steeped in the heritage and charm of Tobermory’s colorful Isle of Mull harbor town.
Tobermory Corner Shop
1.7 km
Experience local charm and unique finds at Tobermory Corner Shop, your gateway to the Isle of Mull's treasures.
Co-op Food - Tobermory
1.8 km
Tobermory’s largest convenience store offering fresh island produce and everyday essentials in the heart of the Isle of Mull.
Island Blue Tobermory
1.8 km
Discover authentic Isle of Mull crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Tobermory’s vibrant Main Street.
Isle Of Mull Soap Co Ltd
1.9 km
Discover handmade natural soaps and eco-friendly gifts crafted with care in the heart of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Island Crafts
1.9 km
Discover authentic Isle of Mull artistry and handcrafted treasures in the heart of Tobermory’s vibrant craft scene.
Tobermory Stores
1.9 km
Tobermory Stores offers essential shopping with local charm in the heart of Isle of Mull’s colorful main street.
Trekomory Breeze
2.0 km
Trekomory Breeze offers practical outdoor clothing and accessories in Tobermory, blending local charm with quality gear for every adventurer.
Seafare
2.1 km
Tobermory’s trusted chandlery since 1977, offering essential marine safety gear and supplies in the heart of the Isle of Mull’s harbor town.
Hasn Candle Company
2.6 km
Discover handcrafted candles inspired by the natural beauty and seasonal scents of the Isle of Mull in Tobermory’s welcoming artisan shop.
Glengorm Gardens and Florist
6.9 km
Discover the serene Victorian walled gardens and artisan florist of Glengorm Estate, a floral and horticultural gem on the Isle of Mull’s rugged northern coast.
Premier
9.2 km
Your friendly local Premier store on Mull’s Main Street, offering groceries, postal services, and community warmth in Dervaig village.
Craignure SPAR and Post Office
28.8 km
Discover the convenience of Craignure SPAR and Post Office, your one-stop shop for essentials and local delights on the Isle of Mull.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Auld Mull Bar
1.6 km
Experience warm island hospitality and local flavors at Auld Mull Bar, a cozy family-run retreat in Tobermory’s charming harbor village.
Western Isles Hotel
1.7 km
Historic hotel with breathtaking Tobermory Bay views, classic charm, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Mull.
Mishnish
1.7 km
A traditional Scottish hotel and bar in Tobermory, famed for cosy harbour views, live folk music, and warm island hospitality.
The Tobermory Hotel
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Historic boutique hotel with stunning Tobermory Bay views, local cuisine, and warm Highland hospitality on the Isle of Mull’s vibrant waterfront.
Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa
28.1 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on the Isle of Mull, blending scenic views, spa relaxation, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Craignure Inn
29.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub and inn in Craignure offering hearty fare, comfortable rooms, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Mull.
Bunessan Inn
37.4 km
Historic Isle of Mull pub and inn offering hearty food, local whiskies, cozy rooms, and stunning loch views in a warm community setting.
The Keel Row
39.4 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Fionnphort offering hearty Scottish dishes, scenic bay views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Mull.
Snack Bar
39.5 km
Experience the charm of the Isle of Mull at the Snack Bar, where delightful bites and stunning views create unforgettable memories.
Markie Dans
43.8 km
Family-run pub in Oban offering vast single malts, hearty food, live music, and stunning bay views in a welcoming, lively atmosphere.
The Tartan Tavern
43.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and traditional charm at The Tartan Tavern, a cozy and lively pub in the heart of Oban.
Cellar Bar
44.0 km
Cozy and traditional Scottish pub on Oban’s waterfront, famed for local whiskies, live music, and warm hospitality.
Lorne Bar
44.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Oban at The Lorne Bar.
The Oyster Bar
46.0 km
A charming seafood haven in historic Ellenabeich, offering fresh oysters, scenic coastal views, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
47.8 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Roobarb
61.3 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
86.5 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Jura Brewery
88.7 km
Discover Jura Brewery: A Craft Beer Experience in the Heart of the Isle of Jura, Where Tradition Meets Nature's Bounty.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
