
Burnham-on-Sea Round Tower
The Burnham-on-Sea Round Tower is a prominent historic structure situated on the coast of Somerset, England. Originally constructed in the late 18th century, it served as the town's first lighthouse, built to guide mariners safely through the treacherous waters of the Bristol Channel. Its robust, circular brick design reflects the practical maritime engineering of the era, standing as a testament to the region's rich seafaring heritage.
Although it functioned as a lighthouse for a relatively short period, the Round Tower was eventually replaced by the more famous High Lighthouse and Low Lighthouse in the 19th century. After being decommissioned, the tower underwent various modifications and found new life as a private residence. Today, it remains an iconic local landmark, recognizable to both locals and visitors walking along the scenic seafront.
While the interior is not generally open to the public due to its residential status, the Round Tower is a popular subject for photography and a key point of interest on coastal walks. The surrounding area offers expansive views of the Bristol Channel, extensive sandy beaches, and beautiful coastal landscapes, making a visit to the Burnham-on-Sea esplanade highly rewarding.
Weather…
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 5 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 93 | 73 | 71 | 58 | 64 | 70 | 76 | 82 | 58 | 103 | 102 | 101 |
Practical info
Tips
- Take a walk down the esplanade to see the other historic lighthouses.
- Watch out for tidal changes in the Bristol Channel.
- Enjoy a sunset walk for the best lighting conditions.
FAQ
What is the Burnham-on-Sea Round Tower?
Can I go inside the Round Tower?
Why was it replaced?
What is the best time to see the tower?
How can I reach the location?
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService