# Eilean Glas Lighthouse

- **Country:** United Kingdom
- **Region:** Scotland
- **Coordinates:** 57.856900, -6.642000
- **Year Built:** 1789
- **Focal Height M:** 32692860
- **Summary Written At:** 2026-10-15 02:45:35

Sitting on the east coast of the island of Scalpay in the Outer Hebrides, this beacon guides vessels through the surrounding waters of Scotland's western coast. It was one of the original four lights commissioned by the Commissioners of the Northern Lights, and it remains a prominent feature on the rugged coastline.

The tower is a cylindrical masonry structure, 30 m tall, surmounted by a balcony and a black lantern. Its exterior carries two broad red bands against a white background, giving it a distinctive appearance. The light sits at a focal height of 43 m and projects a group of three white flashes every 20 seconds (Fl (3) W 20s), visible for 23 nmi. Illumination is provided by catoptric sealed‑beam lamps, delivering an intensity of 400,000 candela.

An original stone tower was erected in 1789 under the direction of Thomas Smith and first displayed its light that same year. In 1824 the initial structure was replaced by a new masonry tower designed by Robert Stevenson, and a revolving lens system was installed in 1852. The station was automated in 1978, and the fog signal was discontinued in the 1980s, with only the horn retained as decoration.

The lighthouse remains active and is operated by the Northern Lighthouse Board. While the tower itself is maintained by the Board, the surrounding buildings are owned by the North Harris Trust and the Eilean Glas Trust. It continues to serve as a functional aid to navigation.

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eilean_Glas_Lighthouse (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)