Eshaness Lighthouse: A Remote Beacon on Shetland's Rugged Coast
Historic 1929 lighthouse perched on Shetland’s dramatic cliffs, guarding treacherous seas with stunning coastal views and rich maritime heritage.
Perched atop towering cliffs on the Northmavine peninsula of Shetland, Eshaness Lighthouse stands as a historic maritime sentinel built in 1929 by the renowned Stevenson family. This distinctive square concrete tower, flashing white every 12 seconds, warns vessels of the perilous Ve Skerries reef offshore. Surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery, sea caves, and natural arches, the lighthouse combines rugged natural beauty with rich maritime heritage, now offering holiday accommodation in the former keeper’s cottage.
A brief summary to Eshaness Lighthouse
- Shetland, Eshaness, ZE2 9RS, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during clear weather to fully appreciate the dramatic sea stacks and natural arches nearby.
- Book the former keeper’s cottage for a unique overnight stay steeped in lighthouse history.
- Bring sturdy footwear for exploring rugged coastal paths and nearby geological features like the Holes of Scraada.
- Listen for the ‘Canon’—a natural blowhole that produces thunderous sounds during stormy weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the Shetland Islands bus service from Lerwick to Northmavine, which runs several times daily. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Note that service frequency is limited on weekends and public holidays, and the final stretch involves a moderate walk on uneven terrain. Tickets cost around £8–£12 GBP one way.
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Car Rental
Rent a car in Lerwick for flexible access to Eshaness Lighthouse. The drive takes about 1 hour 15 minutes via the A970 and B9079 roads. Parking is available near the lighthouse, but the last approach involves a short walk over rugged paths. Fuel and rental costs vary; expect around £40–£70 GBP per day for a small vehicle.
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Guided Tour
Join a guided day tour from Lerwick that includes Eshaness Lighthouse and surrounding coastal landmarks. Tours typically last 5–7 hours, include transportation and commentary, and cost approximately £50–£80 GBP per person. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak seasons.
Eshaness 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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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Eshaness Lighthouse
Architectural Legacy of the Stevenson Family
Eshaness Lighthouse was constructed between 1925 and 1929 by David Alan Stevenson and Charles Alexander Stevenson, members of the famous Stevenson family who engineered many Scottish lighthouses over 150 years. It was the last manned lighthouse designed by this family, marking the end of an era in lighthouse engineering. The tower is a 12-metre (39 ft) high tapering square structure built from concrete due to the unsuitability of local stone, a distinctive choice that adds to its uniqueness. Its white tower with black lantern and ochre trim stands prominently on a 200-foot cliff, giving the light a focal height of 61 metres above sea level.Maritime Significance and Historical Context
The lighthouse was erected to warn ships of the dangerous Ve Skerries reef located about 8.5 miles offshore, a hazard that had claimed many vessels over centuries. Before the current lighthouse, a temporary acetylene-powered light was installed in 1915 but removed after World War I. Despite the lighthouse’s presence, tragedies like the wreck of the Aberdeen trawler Ben Doran occurred nearby. The rise of oil tanker traffic to Sullom Voe terminal prompted the construction of a lighthouse on the Ve Skerries in 1979, with Eshaness serving as the construction site.Automation and Current Use
Automated in 1974, the lighthouse’s light intensity was increased to 46,500 candela, extending its nominal range to 25 nautical miles. The original Fresnel lens was replaced with sealed-beam electric lamps. The former keeper’s accommodation, unusual in housing only one keeper instead of the typical three, is now maintained by the Shetland Amenity Trust and serves as holiday accommodation. The isolated setting has remained largely unchanged, preserving the lighthouse’s historic character and its dramatic coastal environment.Surrounding Natural Wonders
Eshaness is famed for its breathtaking coastal landscape. Nearby are the sea stacks known as The Drongs, the Doorhole natural arch, and the Holes of Scraada, a collapsed sea cave that forms a blowhole when the tide is in. These geological features create a dramatic backdrop to the lighthouse and have inspired local folklore and literature, including settings in the Shetland crime novels by Ann Cleeves.Life at the Lighthouse
The solitary lighthouse keeper’s life was demanding and isolated, with harsh Atlantic storms battering the cliffs. Former keeper Willie Gifford recalled the ferocity of the seas and the precautions needed, such as wooden shutters and canvas chimney shelters to protect against the elements. The lighthouse’s remote location and the natural forces surrounding it offer visitors a glimpse into the resilience required to maintain such a vital maritime beacon.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Listed as a category B building, Eshaness Lighthouse remains a significant heritage site. The Shetland Amenity Trust’s stewardship ensures ongoing maintenance and public access to the keeper’s cottage accommodation. Visitors can experience the raw beauty of Shetland’s northwest coast, the lighthouse’s historic ambiance, and the powerful natural environment that shaped its story.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Voe Public Hall
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Tagon Stores
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The honesty box
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Culswick Broch
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Essential places to dine
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Da Haaf Restaurant
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The Waterfront Bar and Grill
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Gurkha Kitchen
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The Olive Tree
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Saffron
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Hay's Dock By The Dowry
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The Great Wall
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The New Harbour Cafe
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The Dowry
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The Grand Hotel
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Shetland Fairy
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The Kergord Hatchery Bookshop
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The Hillshop
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Aywick Shop
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Shetland Crafts
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Discover authentic Shetland artistry at Shetland Crafts in Yell, where tradition meets inspired craftsmanship in a welcoming setting.
The Co-Operative Lerwick
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Co-op Food - Shetland Lerwick - Holmsgarth Road
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Bolts Minimarket
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Toll Clock Shopping Centre
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Boots
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
