Orfordness Low Lighthouse
Location & Light Range
About Orfordness Low Lighthouse
The Orfordness Low Lighthouse was established in 1836 on the Suffolk coast of England to mark the Orford Ness shingle spit. This long, narrow bank constantly shifted, presenting a hazard to maritime traffic. The lighthouse worked with Orfordness High to guide ships safely past the changing contours of the shore. Its light helped mariners navigate the area for over fifty years. However, relentless beach erosion gradually undermined the structure's foundations. By 1887, the sea had claimed the lighthouse, ending its operational service.
Why it matters: The lighthouse was essential for safe passage along the Suffolk coast, warning vessels away from the dangerous shingle banks of Orford Ness. Its loss due to erosion demonstrates the powerful natural forces impacting coastal infrastructure.
Tower & Structure
Structure: Orfordness Low Lighthouse once marked the treacherous shingle spit of Orford Ness along the Suffolk coast, a landscape constantly reshaped by the sea. From its establishment in 1836, it served as a crucial navigational aid for mariners traversing these shifting waters, often working in conjunction with its taller counterpart, Orfordness High. The long, narrow shingle bank presented a significant hazard to shipping, and the Low Light helped guide vessels safely past its ever-changing contours. For over five decades, it stood vigil, its light piercing the coastal mists and darkness. However, the relentless power of beach erosion, a constant threat on this dynamic coastline, gradually undermined its foundations. By 1887, the sea had claimed the structure, a dramatic end to its service. Today, only historical records and the memory of its service remain, a poignant reminder of the unforgiving nature of this particular stretch of coastline. It is no longer possible to visit the site of this lost light, but its story is deeply woven into the maritime heritage of Suffolk.
Location
- City
- North Kesteven
- Country
- 🇬🇧United Kingdom
- Region
- England
- Sea Region
- Orfordness, Suffolk, England
- Latitude
- 53.1452°
- Longitude
- -0.4942°
Nearby Vessels
Construction & History
- Year Built
- 1836
Significant events: lost to beach erosion
References & Identifiers
- Nearest Port
- Gainsborough(18.8 km)
- ARLHS No.
- ENG-329
Orfordness Low Deniz Feneri'ni canlı deniz haritasında bulun
United Kingdom yakınlarında sefer planlayın, yakındaki gemileri gerçek zamanlı görün ve uygulamada 14.900'den fazla seyir yardımcısını keşfedin.