Berwick Lighthouse: Historic Beacon at the River Tweed Entrance
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the town’s maritime heritage.
Berwick Lighthouse, built in 1826, stands at the end of an 877-meter pier protecting Berwick-upon-Tweed’s harbour entrance. This iconic red and white lighthouse is a major landmark offering stunning views of the North Sea, the town, and the River Tweed estuary. Though not open to the public, the lighthouse and its pier provide a scenic coastal walk rich in maritime history and local heritage.
A brief summary to Berwick Lighthouse
- Berwick-upon-Tweed, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Dress in layers as the pier is often windy, even on sunny days.
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for spectacular lighting and photo opportunities.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic views of the North Sea and Berwick town.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Lowry Trail to explore local art inspired by the lighthouse.
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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Train and Walking
From Berwick-upon-Tweed train station, take a 20-25 minute walk along the town streets and waterfront to reach Berwick Pier and Lighthouse. The route is mostly flat and accessible, but exposed to coastal winds. No cost involved.
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Bus and Walk
Local bus services from Berwick town center to the pier area take approximately 10-15 minutes, followed by a 5-10 minute walk to the lighthouse. Bus fares range from £2 to £4. Service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Car and Walk
Visitors driving to Berwick Pier can park in nearby public car parks in Berwick-upon-Tweed town center. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £6 for a few hours. From the car park, it is a 10-15 minute walk to the lighthouse along paved paths.
Berwick Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Berwick Lighthouse
A Maritime Sentinel with Two Centuries of History
Berwick Lighthouse was completed in 1826 as a vital navigational aid marking the entrance to the River Tweed and Berwick Harbour. Standing 13.5 meters tall, its distinctive red and white paint has made it a beloved symbol of the town. Constructed at the end of a long stone pier, the lighthouse was essential for guiding ships safely through the often treacherous North Sea waters into the harbour. Over nearly 200 years, it has witnessed the evolution of Berwick’s maritime trade and coastal life.The Pier: A Sturdy Gateway to the Sea
The 877-meter-long pier, built in the early 19th century, serves as a breakwater protecting the harbour and providing a solid walkway for visitors. The pier’s robust stone construction has endured harsh North Sea gales and continues to offer panoramic views of the coastline and town. Walking this pier is a popular activity, allowing visitors to experience the blend of natural beauty and historic engineering that characterizes Berwick-upon-Tweed’s waterfront.Visual and Cultural Landmark of Berwick
The lighthouse’s striking colors and location have inspired artists, including the famous L.S. Lowry, whose paintings feature the structure. It is a key point on Berwick’s Lowry Trail, attracting photographers and art lovers alike. The lighthouse’s presence signals the town’s long-standing connection to the sea and its role as a border port between England and Scotland.Preservation Efforts and Community Significance
Exposed to relentless coastal weather, the lighthouse has undergone restoration to maintain its structural integrity and iconic appearance. In 2020, it was repointed and repainted by the Berwick Preservation Trust during the challenging Covid-19 lockdowns, symbolizing resilience and community spirit. The project involved collaboration between the Harbour Commissioners, builders, and painters, reaffirming the lighthouse’s importance as a welcoming beacon for visitors and locals.Visitor Experience and Scenic Surroundings
While the lighthouse itself is not open for public tours, the walk along the pier offers breathtaking views of the North Sea, the River Tweed estuary, and Berwick’s historic townscape. It is especially popular at sunrise and sunset, when the light casts dramatic colors over the water and coastline. The area is often windy, so visitors are advised to dress in layers. Nearby amenities include cafés where visitors can enjoy refreshments before or after their stroll.Berwick’s Coastal Heritage in Context
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s location at the England-Scotland border has given it a rich history of maritime trade, military significance, and cultural exchange. The lighthouse and pier are integral to this heritage, representing the town’s enduring relationship with the sea. Together with other historic sites like Berwick Castle and the town walls, the lighthouse helps tell the story of a community shaped by its coastal environment and strategic position.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Berwick Lighthouse
0.0 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Coxon's Tower
1.1 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Berwick Town Walls
1.2 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Town Hall
1.3 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Royal Tweed Bridge
1.4 km
A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick Bridge
1.5 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Cumberland Bastion
1.5 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Lord's Mount
1.7 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Royal Border Bridge
2.0 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Broad Shiel
4.7 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Lamberton Skerrs
7.8 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.
Visit Berwickshire Coast
13.7 km
Explore the Berwickshire Coast: A stunning blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming coastal towns perfect for a memorable getaway.
Scoutscroft Leisure Park | Verdant Leisure
17.2 km
Relax by the stunning Berwickshire coast with cozy self-catering lodges, pet-friendly amenities, and seaside adventures at Scoutscroft Leisure Park.
Marjoribanks Monument
20.6 km
A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.
Berwickshire High School
23.3 km
Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Berwick-Upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard
1.2 km
Explore the historic 18th-century Berwick Barracks, a fortress of England’s border heritage with panoramic views and rich military exhibitions.
King's Own Scottish Borderers Regimental Museum
1.2 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the King's Own Scottish Borderers in Berwick's historic barracks museum.
Berwick Boat Trips
1.3 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed from the water on scenic boat trips blending wildlife, history, and stunning river and sea views.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
1.9 km
Walk the most complete Elizabethan ramparts in England, where medieval castle ruins meet panoramic views of Berwick and the River Tweed.
Red Cliffs in Berwick-upon-Tweed
2.5 km
Experience breathtaking red sandstone cliffs and stunning coastal views just north of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
England / Scotland Border
5.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the England/Scotland border in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a must-visit for every tourist.
Union Bridge
7.8 km
Walk or cycle across the world’s oldest vehicular suspension bridge, a stunning 1820 engineering landmark linking England and Scotland over the River Tweed.
Paxton House
7.9 km
Discover the grandeur of Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite art, gardens, and riverside charm near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Lazy Day Cottages
10.9 km
Luxury log cabins with private hot tubs and sauna, nestled in peaceful Scottish Borders countryside near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Norham Castle
11.5 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Norham Castle, a historic 12th-century fortress guarding the River Tweed and inspiring centuries of border history.
Duddo Five Stones
11.8 km
Explore the ancient Duddo Five Stones, a mysterious Bronze Age stone circle set amidst Northumberland’s scenic border hills.
Eyemouth Museum
13.6 km
Discover Eyemouth’s rich maritime heritage and community stories in this charming coastal museum with interactive exhibits and a welcoming atmosphere.
Heritage Walks Northumberland
13.6 km
Explore Northumberland’s hidden heritage on scenic guided walks blending history, nature, and local stories in stunning countryside settings.
Eyemouth Beach
13.7 km
A sandy, dog-friendly bay by Eyemouth Harbour, offering rockpools, seal watching, and dramatic North Sea waves on the scenic Scottish Borders coast.
Holy Island
14.8 km
Discover Holy Island, a tidal sanctuary of ancient Christian heritage, stunning coastal beauty, and tranquil village charm off Northumberland’s coast.
Essential places to dine
Limoncello
1.2 km
Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.
Ivy 43
1.2 km
Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Amore Restaurant
1.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.
Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant
1.2 km
A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Audela
1.4 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.
The Castle Hotel & Restaurant
1.9 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.
Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill
3.0 km
A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.
Restaurant 1782
5.3 km
Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen
7.6 km
A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Bull Inn
12.8 km
A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.
The Heathers Restaurant
13.1 km
Fresh seafood and harbour views in a historic golf clubhouse overlooking Eyemouth's working waterfront.
Oblo
13.5 km
Stylish harbourfront bistro in Eyemouth serving fresh seasonal dishes, cocktails, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ship Restaurant & Bar
13.5 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Eyemouth, serving fresh local seafood and hearty fare in a lively, dog-friendly harbour-side setting.
Allanton Inn
14.6 km
A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The Blue Bell Inn
17.3 km
A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Granny's Keepsakes
1.1 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and heartfelt keepsakes in the charming, friendly boutique of Granny's Keepsakes in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store
1.2 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and local heritage within Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic Woolmarket district.
Unique Antiques
1.3 km
Discover quirky, unique antiques in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at this charming Hide Hill shop.
Artisans at Serendipity
1.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by local artists in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Derrants
1.3 km
Discover unique local gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Derrants.
Bijoux
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Bijoux, a charming gift shop in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Loop Emporium
1.4 km
Discover unique vintage and upcycled fashion treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Loop Emporium.
The Seagull's Nest
1.5 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.
The National Trust Shop
15.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
CJR Gifts & Designs
17.3 km
Handcrafted artisan treasures celebrating the creative spirit of the Scottish Borders.
ScotlandShop
22.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans and bespoke tailoring in Duns’ premier showroom, celebrating heritage with over 500 clan plaids.
Number 18 Shop
22.6 km
Explore Number 18 Shop in Duns for unique clothing, handcrafted candles, stylish handbags, and exquisite jewelry, perfect for souvenirs.
Country House Gifts & Gallery
24.3 km
Discover unique gifts and high-quality treasures in the heart of historic Bamburgh at Country House Gifts & Gallery.
Farne Gifts
29.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Farne Gifts, Seahouses’ charming gift shop with a welcoming atmosphere and year-round appeal.
National Trust Shop
29.1 km
Discover charming puffin souvenirs and local crafts at the National Trust Shop in Seahouses, supporting conservation of the Farne Islands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Curfew Micropub
1.3 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The Barrels
1.4 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
Leaping Salmon
1.5 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Radio Rooms
1.6 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Thatch
1.8 km
A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.
The First & Last Inn
10.3 km
Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.
The Lindisfarne Inn
11.2 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
The Contented Sole
13.6 km
A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.
The Craw Inn
17.8 km
Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.
BEST PUBLIC BAR
21.1 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.
Schooner Inn
29.2 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Vibe
33.8 km
A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.
The Joiners Arms
35.2 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
The Bear & Bull
42.4 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming bar and café on Dunbar’s High Street, offering quality food, drinks, and a warm local atmosphere.
Black Swan Alnwick
42.6 km
Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
