Nestled in the southwest corner of Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway is a region of dramatic coastlines, rugged beauty, and seafaring history. Among its many charms, the lighthouses that dot the shore stand as stoic sentinels, having guided ships safely through treacherous waters for centuries.
These coastal beacons are not only functional relics of maritime history but also picturesque destinations in their own right. They are perfect for a scenic road trip, a photography adventure, or somewhere for a quiet moment of reflection by the sea.
Here is a selection of eight lighthouses that can be found across the Dumfries & Galloway coastline.
Little Ross Island & Lighthouse
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Little Ross Lighthouse – ‘Beauty & Tragedy’
Off the coast near Kirkcudbright lies Little Ross Island, home to a lighthouse with a haunting history. Built in 1843, the island gained notoriety in 1960 when a murder occurred at the keeper’s cottage. Despite this dark past, the lighthouse and island remain visually stunning, visible from the mainland or accessible by private boat. The island is now privately owned, but the surrounding area remains a popular spot for coastal walks and wildlife spotting. A short walk from Ross Bay Retreat will offer a superb view across to Little Ross Island and its lighthouse.
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Southerness Lighthouse – ‘One of Scotland’s Oldest’
Just south of Dumfries, the Southerness Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Scotland, first lit in 1749. Though no longer operational, it stands as an iconic structure on the Solway Firth coastline. The surrounding village of Southerness is a popular seaside destination, offering sandy beaches, coastal walks, and expansive views toward the Cumbrian hills.
Southerness Lighthouse & Beach
Rhins of Galloway Lighthouse Tour
A number of these iconic coastal structures, have been connected by a new tourism trail. The Lighthouses of the Rhins of Galloway tour gives visitors the opportunity to learn about their history, their stories and experience some stunning coastal scenery at the same time. The following lighthouses are included in this fascinating coastal tour.
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Mull of Galloway Lighthouse – ‘Scotland’s Southernmost Point’
Perched atop a 260-foot-high cliff, the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse is a must-visit. Built in 1830 by renowned engineer Robert Stevenson, this elegant white tower is Scotland’s most southerly lighthouse. Today, visitors can climb the 115 steps to the top for sweeping views over the Irish Sea, Galloway coast, and on a clear day, even to Ireland and the Isle of Man. The site also includes a visitor centre, café, and nature trails through an RSPB reserve teeming with seabirds.
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Corsewall Lighthouse – ‘A Beacon Turned Boutique Hotel’
Located near Stranraer at the northern end of the Rhins of Galloway peninsula, Corsewall Lighthouse has been in operation since 1817. Designed to help vessels navigate the North Channel between Scotland and Northern Ireland, this lighthouse is still active today. The keeper’s accommodation, however, has been transformed into a luxurious hotel. It offers a unique chance to stay in a working lighthouse while enjoying gourmet dining and ocean views.
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Port Logan Lighthouse – ‘A Coastal Curiosity’
Less imposing than others but full of charm, Port Logan Lighthouse is found at the end of a stone pier in the picturesque fishing village of Port Logan. The lighthouse was originally built in the early 19th century to aid the development of a local harbor. It’s a great stop on a drive along the scenic A716, and the village itself is worth exploring, with its tranquil beach and proximity to the Logan Botanic Garden.
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Portpatrick – ‘Original now resides in Sri Lanka’
The stunning seaside village of Portpatrick was once a bustling busy port with sailing ships and later paddle steamers from Ireland. The lighthouse you see today was built in the late 1800’s, replacing an earlier version built by John Rennie in 1830. This lighthouse sat on the south pier of the harbour but both harbour wall and lighthouse were undermined by a great storm. Portpatrick lighthouse was dissembled brick by brick and today it sits overlooking the harbour in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The pier itself was abandoned to the elements with just a few stones showing where it once sat.
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Killantringan – ‘On the Southern Upland Way walking route’
Built in 1900 by David Alan Stevenson, Killantrigan lighthouse can be seen from the Southern Upland Way walking route. The keeper in 1982 was the first to sight cargo ship MV Craigantlet as it headed for the small bay to the side of the lighthouse. The ship’s crew had set it on autopilot and fallen asleep, but had made a mis-calcuation in the bearings. The story made national headlines as the ship broke up and some of the containers had hazardous contents. The area was cordoned off and indeed the lighthouse keeper evacuated. Today you can gaze down on the scenic bay, which offers an ideal spot for drink or a picnic while you take in the view.
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Loch Ryan – ‘Oysters & Cross Channel Ferries’
Another Stevenson lighthouse, Loch Ryan was established in 1847 at a time when there would have been considerable shipping traffic into Stranraer. During the second world war, Cairnryan became an important military port. The Liberty Ships came bringing supplies, ammunition and troops from the US, docking here for onward transfer to the ‘theatre of war’. Today the Loch Ryan lighthouse (also known as Cairn Point Lighthouse) serves as a vital navigational aid for the busy cross channel ferries between Northern Ireland and Scotland. The loch itself is home to wild native oysters, celebrated annually during the Stranraer Oyster Festival each September.
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Why Visit the Lighthouses of Dumfries and Galloway?
These lighthouses are more than navigational aids, they are symbols of endurance, solitude, and Scotland’s rich maritime legacy. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer chasing the golden hour, or simply looking for a quiet moment by the sea, the lighthouses of Dumfries and Galloway offer something special. Pack a flask, bring your camera, and set out to discover the light that still guides the way.
Map Links to Dumfries and Galloway Lighthouses
- Mull of Galloway Lighthouse
Scotland’s southernmost lighthouse, offering panoramic views and a visitor centre.
View on Google Maps - Corsewall Lighthouse
An operational lighthouse with adjacent boutique hotel accommodations.
View on Google Maps - Little Ross Lighthouse
Situated on Little Ross Island, accessible by private boat; known for its scenic beauty.
View on Google Maps - Port Logan Lighthouse
A charming lighthouse located at the end of the pier in the village of Port Logan.
View on Google Maps - Southerness Lighthouse
One of Scotland’s oldest lighthouses, situated in the coastal village of Southerness.
View on Google Maps - Killantringan
Located on Southern Upland Way walking route.
View on Google Maps - Loch Ryan Lighthouse
Serves as a vital navigational aid for the busy cross channel ferries between Northern Ireland and Scotland.
View on Google Maps - Portpatrick Lighthouse
The original one sits overlooking the harbour in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
View on Google Maps
More Information & Useful Links
- The Lighthouses of the Rhins of Galloway – https://scotlandstartshere.com/blog/lighthouses-rhins-of-galloway/
- Visit Scotland – Mull of Galloway Lighthouse
- Trip Advisor – Lighthouses in Dumfries and Galloway
- Historic Sites & Local Heritage Around Ross Bay Retreat
- Guide to the Wild Side of Southern Dumfries & Galloway
Ross Bay Retreat View to Little Ross Island
