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Muckle Roe Lighthouse

Fl White🇬🇧GBOperational

Location & Light Range

About Muckle Roe Lighthouse

Also known as: Muckle Roe (relocated)

Originally built in 1897, this octagonal lighthouse stands 8 meters tall and is constructed of white-painted cast iron. Its focal height reaches 30 meters, and it previously emitted a white light with two flashes every 3 seconds. For over a century, the lighthouse guided mariners near the island of Muckle Roe. It ceased active service in 2001. Subsequently, the structure was relocated to Sumburgh Head station. Now serving as the entry kiosk for the station, it retains its original 3rd order Fresnel lens. The tower is open to the public.

Why it matters: The lighthouse is significant for its unique transition from an active navigational aid to a preserved historic structure serving as an entry point for the Sumburgh Head station, allowing public interaction with maritime heritage.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl White
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Raw Code
Fl WR 3s
Focal Height
30m
Light Range
9NM (16.7 km)
Geographic Range
15.3NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1897

Significant events: Inactive since 2001, relocated to serve as the entry kiosk for the Sumburgh Head station

Visiting

Open to public
Yes

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
8m
Tower Shape
octagonal
Tower Color
white
Material
cast iron

Structure: octagonal cast iron tower, painted white

Location

Country
🇬🇧United Kingdom
Region
Scotland
Sea Region
Originally Muckle Roe, now located at Sumburgh Head station
Latitude
59.8580°
Longitude
-1.2720°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Grutness(1.0 km)
Admiralty No.
A3844.
NGA No.
114-3552
ARLHS No.
SCO141
Wikidata
Q28465950 →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How far offshore can Muckle Roe Lighthouse be seen?+
With a focal height of 30 meters and a nominal range of 9 nautical miles (approximately 16.7 km), Muckle Roe is visible from well offshore under standard atmospheric conditions. Actual visibility depends on observer height, weather, and sea state. This range makes it a significant coastal navigation aid for vessels transiting the area.
How do mariners identify Muckle Roe Lighthouse at night?+
Muckle Roe displays the characteristic Fl White. 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 white color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Muckle Roe Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Muckle Roe Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Grutness at 0.6 NM to the NNW. Other ports served include SUMBURGH (1.3 NM NNW), Levenwick (6.5 NM N), Sandwick (7.6 NM N), Hoswick (8.5 NM N). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Muckle Roe Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Muckle Roe 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.
How can I track vessels near Muckle Roe Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Muckle Roe 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.