Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse stands at the northern tip of the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland. Constructed in 1862 by the renowned engineer David Stevenson, this towering structure has guided mariners safely past the rugged North Atlantic coastline for over a century. Unlike most traditional Scottish lighthouses which are painted white, it is notable for its unpainted red brick exterior, giving it a striking appearance against the stormy Hebridean sky.

Rising 37 meters, the lighthouse sits atop dramatic sea cliffs that drop precipitously into the churning ocean. The location is legendary for its wild weather and is frequently cited in the Guinness Book of Records as the windiest place in the UK. The power of nature is palpable here, with colossal waves crashing against the rocks during Atlantic gales, making it a thrilling destination for storm watchers.

Beyond the lighthouse, the surrounding area is rich in coastal wildlife and spectacular scenery. The cliffs provide nesting sites for seabirds, and the expansive ocean views offer opportunities to spot marine mammals like seals, dolphins, and whales. A visit provides a profound sense of isolation and raw natural beauty.

Weather…

Practical info

Getting thereAccessible by driving north from Stornoway along the A857 road towards Ness, then following local signs to Eoropie and the lighthouse.
Best time to visitSummer offers the mildest weather for bird watching, while autumn and winter are spectacular for storm watching, though great care must be taken.
Good to knowDue to the extreme winds and sheer cliffs, visitors should stay far back from the cliff edges and dress in warm, windproof clothing.

Tips

FAQ

What is the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse?
A historic 19th-century lighthouse guiding maritime traffic at the northernmost point of the Isle of Lewis.
Why is the lighthouse red?
Unlike most Scottish lighthouses, it was built with red bricks and left unpainted.
Can visitors go inside the lighthouse?
The interior is generally closed to the public as it is an automated facility, but the surrounding grounds are accessible.
Is it really the windiest place in the UK?
Yes, it is frequently recorded as one of the windiest places in the United Kingdom due to its highly exposed position.
What wildlife can be seen there?
It is a great spot to see nesting seabirds on the cliffs and occasionally dolphins, seals, and whales in the ocean.

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Attractions nearby

In the area