Monton Lighthouse: Quirky Canal-Side Beacon in Manchester

A quirky, privately built lighthouse on the Bridgewater Canal offering scenic views and a unique inland maritime charm in Manchester.

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Monton Lighthouse is a unique, privately built lighthouse located beside the Bridgewater Canal in Eccles, Manchester. Constructed by local resident Phil Austin, this four-storey concrete structure stands about 37 feet tall and features a historic light originally from a lightship in the English Channel. Although not open to the public, it is a beloved local landmark offering charming canal views and a touch of maritime whimsy far from the sea.

A brief summary to Monton Lighthouse

Parrin Ln, Manchester, Eccles, M30 8AR, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during daylight to enjoy scenic canal views and photograph the lighthouse from public towpaths.
Explore nearby Monton Green and the historic Veterans’ Shelter for a fuller sense of local heritage.
Respect the private nature of the lighthouse property; access beyond the gate is not permitted.
Combine your visit with a walk along the Bridgewater Canal towards Worsley Village for a pleasant outing.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the train to Eccles station from Manchester Victoria or Piccadilly, with a journey time of around 20-30 minutes. From Eccles, a 20-minute walk along Monton Road and the canal towpath leads to Monton Lighthouse. Train fares typically range from £3 to £6 one way.
Bus

Bus services 33 and 34 run regularly from Manchester city center to Eccles and Monton areas, with a total travel time of 40-50 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £3 per journey. From the nearest bus stop, it is a 10-15 minute walk to the lighthouse along pedestrian-friendly routes.
Car

Driving to Monton Lighthouse takes about 20-30 minutes from central Manchester via the M602 and local roads. Limited street parking is available near Parrin Lane, but check local signs for restrictions. Parking is free but can be busy during weekends.

Monton Lighthouse location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Monton Lighthouse

A Distinctive Landmark Along the Bridgewater Canal

Monton Lighthouse is an unusual sight nestled beside the Bridgewater Canal in the village of Monton, Eccles, part of Greater Manchester. Unlike traditional coastal lighthouses, this inland beacon was built by local man Phil Austin in his garden, rising approximately 37 feet high with a sturdy concrete base. Its walls are nearly 27 inches thick at the bottom, and the foundations extend 14 feet in diameter and 10 feet deep to bedrock, underscoring the solid craftsmanship behind this quirky structure.

The Story Behind the Light

The lighthouse’s light is a fascinating piece of maritime history, originally sourced from a lightship that spent about 50 years in the English Channel before being retired and acquired from a lighthouse museum in Cornwall. Though the light is no longer used regularly, it is occasionally lit for special events, adding to the lighthouse’s charm and local significance.

Monton’s Rich Historical Context

Monton itself is a village with Saxon origins, historically part of Lancashire and now within Salford. The area features a conservation zone including Monton Green, the Unitarian Church, and heritage buildings dating back to the 19th century. The lighthouse stands near the canal path, close to landmarks such as the Monton Veterans’ Shelter, built in 1930 as a meeting place for local industrial veterans, and a sculpture commemorating the Manchester Arena bombing anniversary.

A Quirky Addition to the Canal Landscape

The lighthouse is often described as a ‘4-storey storage facility’ by its creator but has become a beloved local curiosity and a point of interest for canal walkers and photographers. It contrasts with the industrial and historic surroundings, adding a whimsical maritime touch to the inland waterway. Despite its tourist attraction status on maps, the lighthouse remains private and is not open to visitors, with access restricted by a closed gate.

Scenic and Cultural Surroundings

Set beside the tranquil waters of the Bridgewater Canal, the lighthouse offers picturesque views of the canal and nearby green spaces. The area around Monton is rich in history and culture, with walking routes connecting to Worsley Village and Eccles, passing sites related to Manchester’s industrial heritage. The canal and its towpaths provide a peaceful environment for leisurely strolls, photography, and enjoying the blend of nature and history.

Local Significance and Community Spirit

Monton Lighthouse reflects the creativity and spirit of the local community, embodying a typically British blend of eccentricity and pride in local heritage. It stands as a symbol of personal passion and the village’s connection to its waterways, industrial past, and evolving identity within Greater Manchester.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Barton Swing Aqueduct

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Explore the world’s only swing aqueduct, a Victorian engineering marvel carrying the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal since 1894.

5 Sir Matt Busby Way

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Sky Hook Statue 1

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Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.

Salford Lads Club

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A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.

Bahnhof Manchester

6.8 km

Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.

Stretford Weir

7.0 km

Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.

Rochdale Canal Lock 92

7.0 km

Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.

Roman Gardens

7.0 km

Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

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Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

7.1 km

Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

Castlefield historical zone

7.2 km

Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.

LS Lowry birthplace

7.2 km

Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.

Abraham Lincoln Statue

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Visit the Abraham Lincoln Statue in Manchester - a magnificent tribute to a legacy of freedom and equality amidst serene park settings.

Saint Ann's Church

7.5 km

Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Saint Ann's Church, a historic Anglican gem in the heart of Manchester.

Free Trade Hall

7.5 km

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Unmissable attractions to see

Worsley Delph

1.9 km

Historic canal basin and underground mine entrance in Worsley, showcasing the heart of Britain’s Industrial Revolution heritage.

Chill Factore

2.7 km

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iFLY Manchester Indoor Skydiving

2.7 km

Experience the thrill of flight in Manchester’s premier indoor skydiving wind tunnel, where safety meets adrenaline in a family-friendly setting.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

2.9 km

An indoor LEGO wonderland in Manchester where children aged 3-10 can build, play, and explore interactive rides and exhibits.

Trafford Centre

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Manchester’s grand shopping palace blending flagship stores, family fun, and festive magic under one roof.

Inflata Nation Inflatable Theme Park Manchester

4.1 km

The UK’s first indoor inflatable theme park in Trafford Park – giant slides, ball pits and non-stop bouncing fun for kids and adults.

Inflata Nation Inflatable Theme Park Manchester

Quayside Tours Meeting Point

4.4 km

Start your journey through Salford’s rich heritage and vibrant Media City at the iconic Blue Tower meeting point.

Media City Footbridge

4.4 km

An elegant cable-stayed swing bridge linking MediaCityUK with cultural landmarks across the Manchester Ship Canal.

BBC Dock House

4.5 km

Explore the vibrant BBC Dock House at Salford Quays, where cutting-edge broadcasting meets stunning waterfront views and cultural energy.

IWM North

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The Lowry

4.7 km

A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.

Pier Eight Restaurant

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Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.

The Quays

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Quayside MediaCityUK

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Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.

Salford quay’s

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Dockyard

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SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City

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Craftbrew

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Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.

11 Central

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Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.

Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha

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Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.

Matchstick Man

5.5 km

Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.

Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester

7.0 km

Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.

Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester

The Wharf

7.0 km

Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.

Bar Eight

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Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.

The Alchemist Spinningfields

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Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.

cask

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The Blues Kitchen Manchester

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MOJO

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The Gas Lamp

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Atlas Bar

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Monton Lighthouse: Quirky Canal-Side Beacon in Manchester

A brief summary to Monton Lighthouse

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Public Transport

Bus

Car

Monton Lighthouse location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Monton Lighthouse

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Monton Lighthouse

A Distinctive Landmark Along the Bridgewater Canal

The Story Behind the Light

Monton’s Rich Historical Context

A Quirky Addition to the Canal Landscape

Scenic and Cultural Surroundings

Local Significance and Community Spirit

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Barton Swing Aqueduct

5 Sir Matt Busby Way

Sky Hook Statue 1

Salford Lads Club

Bahnhof Manchester

Stretford Weir

Rochdale Canal Lock 92

Roman Gardens

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

Castlefield historical zone

LS Lowry birthplace

Abraham Lincoln Statue

Saint Ann's Church

Free Trade Hall

Unmissable attractions to see

Worsley Delph

Chill Factore

iFLY Manchester Indoor Skydiving

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Trafford Centre

Inflata Nation Inflatable Theme Park Manchester

Quayside Tours Meeting Point

Media City Footbridge

BBC Dock House

IWM North

The Lowry

Pier Eight Restaurant

The Quays

Quayside MediaCityUK

Salford quay’s

Essential places to dine

The Botanist Media City

The Alchemist MediaCity UK

Nando's Salford Quays

Lime

Unagi

Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk

Bella Italia - Salford Quays

Turtle Bay Salford Quays

Quay House Beefeater

The Banyan Tree

Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester

Tattu Manchester

Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant

Dukes 92

20 Stories

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Salford Shopping Centre

The Works

The Body Shop

Next Outlet

M&S Outlet

Flock and Gaggle

The Sweet Emporium

SPAR Salford Quays

Science and Industry Museum Shop

Catch my Thrift

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