Orkney Lighthouses: Guardians of the Northern Isles

The Orkney lighthouses stand as enduring sentinels along the archipelago’s rugged coastline, guiding mariners through some of the most treacherous waters in the North Atlantic.

Over many years, I have visited these lighthouses in all seasons, battling fierce winter storms, witnessing the golden glow of midsummer light, and standing in awe of their steadfast presence against the wild sea.

Each lighthouse has a story to tell, from their construction by the famed Stevenson family to their role in Orkney’s rich maritime history. Beyond their practical purpose, they offer stunning views, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and a sense of solitude that speaks to the true spirit of these islands.

This guide takes you to the main lighthouses as well as sharing the less accessible lighthouses.

North Ronaldsay Lighthouse

The North Ronaldsay Lighthouse is an iconic landmark, holding the title of the tallest land-based lighthouse in the UK at 42 metres. Constructed in 1854 by Alan Stevenson, it replaced the earlier Old Beacon, which still stands nearby. Its distinctive red brick tower with 2 white bands makes it stand out among Scotland’s typically whitewashed lighthouses.

The lighthouse sits on the northernmost of the Orkney islands, where the coastline is known for its ancient dry-stone sheep dyke, built to keep the island’s rare seaweed-eating sheep on the shore. The surrounding waters are a haven for grey and common seals, while the skies fill with migrating birds in spring and autumn. A visitor centre provides insight into the lighthouse’s history and guided tours are available in summer.

Location: North Ronaldsay, Orkney
How to Get There: Flights from Kirkwall to North Ronaldsay operate regularly, or take the ferry. Then follow the road north to the lighthouse. It is possible to walk the 5km from the airport to the lighthouse and back again between the two flights each day.
Website: northronaldsaytrust.com

Dennis Head Old Beacon

Dennis Head Old Beacon, built in 1789, is one of Scotland’s earliest lighthouses. Though now decommissioned, it played a crucial role in guiding vessels through the hazardous waters around North Ronaldsay. The structure remains a historic landmark and a testament to early lighthouse engineering.

The round tower is made of stone and stands at 21 metres tall. The top of the tower has an interesting ball shaped cap.

It is close to the current North Ronaldsay lighthouse and can be reached across the pebble beach and sandy shoreline. Nearby you can see the remains of fishing with decaying boats and rusting winches.

Location: North Ronaldsay, Orkney
How to Get There: Flights from Kirkwall to North Ronaldsay operate regularly, or take the ferry (seasonal). Then follow the road north to the lighthouse. It is possible to walk the 5km from the airport to the lighthouse.

Start Point Lighthouse

Start Point Lighthouse stands proudly on the eastern edge of Sanday, marking one of the most dangerous stretches of water in Orkney. Designed and built in 1806 by David and Thomas Stevenson, it is one of Scotland’s earliest lighthouses, distinguished by its striking 23 metre high tower with black-and-white bands. Originally operated by oil lamps, it was modernised over time and is now automated.

>> Read the full Start Point Lighthouse Guide

The surrounding waters are rich in marine life. Seals haul out along the nearby shores, while otters can sometimes be glimpsed at dawn or dusk. The skies are often filled with seabirds, including Arctic terns and fulmars. On clear days, the lighthouse offers stunning views across the North Sea, making it a rewarding visit for photographers, especially at sunrise. Plan ahead for you visit as the the lighthouse sits on a tidal island.

Location: Start Point, Sanday, Orkney
How to Get There: Take a ferry from Kirkwall to Sanday, then drive the full length of the island to Start Point. The lighthouse is on a tidal island so planning is needed to cross.
Website: northernlighthouseboard.org

Noup Head Lighthouse

Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Westray, Noup Head Lighthouse was built in 1898 by David A and Charles Stevenson to safeguard vessels from the treacherous waters of the Atlantic. The sheer cliffs around the lighthouse are home to vast seabird colonies, including gannets, guillemots, razorbills, and puffins.

The lighthouse stands at 24 metres tall and remains an active aid to navigation, though its remote setting means few visitors make the journey. However, for those who do, the breathtaking coastal scenery and thriving wildlife make it a remarkable destination.

Location: Noup Head, Westray, Orkney
How to Get There: Ferry from Kirkwall to Westray, then drive to Noup Head.
Website: https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/noup-head/

Brough of Birsay Lighthouse

The Brough of Birsay Lighthouse was built in 1925 by David A and Charles Stevenson to guide vessels along the northwest coast of Orkney. This small lighthouse is just 11 metres high but has a unique castellated tower.

Situated on a tidal island, the lighthouse is accessible only during low tide, with a causeway connecting it to the mainland at Birsay.

>> Find out more about the Brough of Birsay circular walk

The location offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding cliffs are a haven for seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes.

The island also holds archaeological significance, with remains from the Pictish and Norse periods scattered around its rugged terrain as well as the remains of an Earl’s Palace.

Location: Brough of Birsay, Orkney
How to Get There: Accessible on foot at low tide via the causeway from Birsay.
Website: https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/brough-of-birsay/

Cantick Head Lighthouse

Cantick Head Lighthouse, built in 1858 by David and Thomas Stevenson, stands 22 metres high on the eastern tip of South Walls in Hoy. Overlooking the notorious Pentland Firth, it has long been essential in aiding vessels navigating these perilous waters.

The lighthouse offers spectacular sea views, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The surrounding cliffs are prime nesting spots for seabirds, and the waters below often reveal passing orcas, minke whales, and porpoises. Nearby, the island’s wartime heritage can be explored at the Scapa Flow Museum at Lyness, with remnants of naval defences and lookouts scattered across the landscape.

Location: South Walls, Hoy, Orkney
How to Get There: Ferry from Houton to Lyness, then drive 10 miles to Cantick Head. It is possible to stay in the keepers cottages.
Website: cantickhead.com

Hoy Mouth Front (Hoy Low) Lighthouse

Located further south on Graemsay, Hoy Low Lighthouse was built in conjunction with Hoy High in 1851. Its lower stature complements Hoy High, working together as leading lights to ensure safe passage into Scapa Flow.

Like its counterpart, Hoy Low is surrounded by rugged coastal scenery and abundant birdlife. The quiet island setting provides an escape from the busier parts of Orkney, making it a rewarding place to visit.

It is possible to see the lightouse as you arrive into Stromness on the ferry from Scrabster. Make sure you are out on deck for the best views. If you are on the islands then take a walk past the campsite in Stromness for views out across to the lighthouse.

Location: Graemsay, Orkney
How to Get There: Passenger ferry from Stromness to Graemsay, followed by a 4km walk along a tarmac road and a short distance on rough track.
Website: https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/hoy-sound-low/

Copinsay Lighthouse

Completed in 1915, Copinsay Lighthouse is 16 metres tall and stands on the uninhabited island of Copinsay, located off the eastern coast of Orkney.

The island, a designated RSPB nature reserve, is an important breeding ground for seabirds. Razorbills, fulmars, and puffins are just a few of the species that nest on its cliffs.

Location: Copinsay, Orkney
How to Get There: Private boat charter from Deerness. On a clear day it can be seen from Point of Ayre in Deerness.
Website: https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/copinsay/

Helliar Holm Lighthouse

Constructed in 1893, Helliar Holm Lighthouse is 13 metres tall and sits on a small island off the coast of Shapinsay. The island, although small, plays a crucial role in guiding ships through local waters.

The lighthouse is located in a remote and tranquil spot, accessible by private boat, and is visible from the nearby island of Shapinsay and the ferry between the island and Kirkwall. Helliar Holm itself is home to various seabirds.

Location: Helliar Holm, Orkney
How to Get There: Viewable from Shapinsay; private boat required for close access.
Website: https://shapinsay.org.uk/locations/helliar-holm/

Other Lighthouses on Orkney

• Calf of Eday – north east coast of Eday island
• Papa Stronsay – north east coast of Papa Stronsay island north of Stronsay
• Auskerry – southern point of Auskerry island
• Kirkwall West Pier – on west pier in Kirkwall Harbour
• Barrel of Butter – off the coast of Orphir in Scapa Flow
• Rose Ness – south coast of Orkney mainland
• Cava – northern point of Cava Island
• Hoxa Head – north west coast of South Ronaldsay island
• Tor Ness – south coast of Hoy
• Lother Rocks – just off Burwick in South Ronaldsay
• Pentland Skerries High – north coast of Muckle Skerry in the Pentland Skerries
• Pentland Skerries Low – shorter tower to the south of operational light
• Sule Skerry – on north coast of Sule skerry island, 60km west of Orkney
• Swona Lighthouse – on the island of Swona
• Stroma – not officially an Orkney lighthouse but it will be seen on the ferry from Gills Bay

Map of Lighthouses on Orkney

How to use this map – Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab or the star to save to your Google Maps.