Mumbles Lighthouse, completed in 1794, is a lighthouse located in Mumbles, near Swansea. The structure, which sits on the outer of two islands off Mumbles Head, is clearly visible from any point along the five mile sweep of Swansea Bay. Along with the nearby lifeboat station, it is the most photographed landmark in the village. The tower has two tiers and initially two open coal fire lights were displayed. These open coal fire lights were difficult to maintain and were soon replaced by a single oil-powered light within a cast-iron lantern.
In 1860, the oil-powered light was upgraded to a dioptric light and the Mumbles Battery, a fort that surrounds the tower, was built by the War Department.
In 1905, an occulting mechanism, where the light was made to flash, was fitted. This was partially automated in 1934.
By 1977, the cast-iron lantern had deteriorated beyond repair and was removed. A different lantern was added in 1987.
In 1995, the main light was replaced and an array of solar panels and emergency monitoring...
Read moreFor over 200 years, Mumbles Head has been home to a lighthouse. the original Mumbles Lighthouse was built in 1794 and the structure, which sits on the outermost of two islands off Mumbles Head, can be seen from anywhere along the five-mile stretch of Swansea Bay. It is the most photographed landmark in the village, along with the nearby lifeboat station. The main tower, which was built in 1794 and has two tiers, was originally lit by two open coal fire lights. These open coal fire lights were difficult to maintain and were quickly replaced by a single oil-powered light contained within a cast-iron lantern. A dioptric light was added to the oil-powered light in 1860. and the War Department built the Mumbles Battery, a fort that surrounds the tower In 1905, an occulting mechanism was installed, which caused the light to flash. In 1934, this was partially automated. The cast-iron lantern had deteriorated beyond repair by 1977 and was removed. In 1987, a new...
Read moreWe have lived in Swansea for years without ever visiting the light house. This is mainly because of tides and weather. You can only visit the lighthouse via the causeway at Low tide. You access this from the pier side of the island chain. You need decent footwear as it is rocky with barnacles which will cut unprotected feet. There is an old lighthouse keeper path but this is in ruin and covers only part of the distance. The views are stunning from the lighthouse island and lots to explore. Some of the outbuildings are unstable so be careful with children who like to climb. The causeway closes really quickly so keep a watchful eye. If it is good weather you can swim it otherwise it's a 12 hour wait or a coast guard rescue. Currents are strong on the causeway when closed so bear...
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