Duncansby Head Lighthouse

Standing at the north-easternmost point of mainland Britain, Duncansby Head Lighthouse is one of the most dramatic and rewarding coastal landmarks in Scotland. Located a short distance from John o’ Groats, the lighthouse overlooks the powerful waters of the Pentland Firth and the North Sea, where strong tides and unpredictable conditions have challenged mariners for centuries. Designed by David Alan Stevenson and first lit in 1924, it is one of the newer lighthouses built by the famous Stevenson family of lighthouse engineers. Unlike many traditional Scottish lighthouses, Duncansby Head features a distinctive square tower rather than the more familiar cylindrical design. Although the tower itself is only 11 metres high, it stands on cliffs around 67 metres above sea level, allowing its powerful light to be seen far out to sea. The lighthouse was automated in 1997 and continues to operate as an important navigational aid for vessels sailing through the busy waters between mainland Scotland and Orkney. The lighthouse is not open to the public, so visitors cannot explore the interior or lantern room. However, the surrounding landscape is the real attraction. Spectacular cliff-top paths lead to the famous Duncansby Stacks, towering sea pillars sculpted over thousands of years by wind and waves.