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Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse

Fl (3) Green 7s🇬🇧GBOperational

Location & Light Range

About Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse

Middle Channel Rock lighthouse, built in 1966, is a 19-meter cylindrical structure situated on a reef 1.4 kilometers south-southeast of St. Ann's Head. It supports a round aluminum lantern housing. The lighthouse emits a single green flash every 7 seconds, visible for 12.9 nautical miles. This navigational aid marks the main channel defined by the Watwick Point Range. In September 2024, the lighthouse was reinforced by enclosing its base in a steel sheaf. While the site is accessible by boat, the tower itself is closed to the public.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is essential for safe navigation through the main channel defined by the Watwick Point Range, warning vessels of the submerged Middle Channel Rock reef.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) Green 7s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Green
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
7s
Raw Code
Fl G 7s
Focal Height
19m
Geographic Range
12.9NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1966

Significant events: strengthened by enclosing it in a steel sheaf in September 2024

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
19m
Tower Shape
cylindrical

Structure: round pillar supporting a round aluminum lantern structure

Location

Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Region
Wales
Sea Region
Located on a reef about 1.4 km south southeast of St. Ann's Head, marking the main channel defined by the Watwick Point Range.
Latitude
51.6719°
Longitude
-5.1642°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Milford Haven(4.5 km)
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse at night?+
Middle Channel Rock displays the characteristic Fl (3) Green 7s — 3 green flashes every 7 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The green color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Dale Roads at 1.8 NM to the NNE. Other ports served include Steynton (6.1 NM ENE), Little Haven (6.2 NM NNE), Milford Haven (6.2 NM ENE), Pembroke (8 NM ENE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
What shipping routes pass near Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse?+
Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse is located within the English Channel / North Sea corridor — one of the world's busiest maritime corridors connecting the Atlantic to Northern European ports. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Middle Channel Rock Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.