Lizard lighthouse

The Lizard lighthouse is a lighthouse complex built in 1752, with an engine room added in 1881 and associated outer buildings and dwellings constructed in 1882. Further alterations occurred in 1903. The construction was overseen by Thomas Fonnereau for the Corporation of Trinity House, London, who remain the current owners.

The lighthouse is built of granite covered with cement rendering, with a double-skinned roof of Cornish slate. The overall plan comprises two towers linked by a range of apartments and offices.

The eastern tower is octagonal, with rectangular window openings containing four panes, each set within a hood mould. It features a circular lantern with diagonal lattice-work grills and surrounding railings, topped with a conical roof and ball finials. The western tower mirrors the eastern design but no longer contains a lantern. The apartments face south and are arranged over two storeys with rectangular windows and hood moulds. Gable-end bays project from the facade. Six tall, black-tarred chimneys with tall pots contribute to the lighthouse's distinctive silhouette. A single-storey outshut extends along the rear, with hipped-roof wings beyond.

Inside the eastern tower, the interior is oak-panelled and features teak, oak, and mahogany fittings. A granite staircase is cantilevered. Both the eastern tower and engine house were internally inspected.

The site of a previous lighthouse dates back to 1619, built by Sir John Killigrew. The current lighthouse of 1752 was designed to be used for navigation; the two towers align to indicate sufficient clearance to access the sea. Initially, coal furnaces were used; these were replaced by oil-driven lamps with reflectors in 1812. In 1878, arc lamps and a fog siren were installed. Operation with two towers ceased in 1903 when a single flashing light was implemented in the eastern tower.