Godrevy Lighthouse
50° 14' 30" N 5° 23' 57" WGodrevy Lighthouse stands on the diminutive and rocky but pretty Godrevy Island in St Ives Bay.
Godrevy Lighthouse stands on a small rocky island off the coast of St Ives Bay, marking the entrance to Hayle Estuary. The lighthouse, visible from the mainland, is an iconic feature of the Cornish coastline and has been guiding mariners since it was first lit in 1859. Its striking white tower and remote location make it a popular subject for photographers and a prominent landmark for those walking the surrounding coastal paths. The nearby Godrevy Point offers sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean, and visitors can often spot seals basking on the rocks below. With its natural beauty and historical significance, Godrevy Lighthouse attracts those interested in Cornwall’s maritime heritage and stunning coastal scenery.
Get full 7-day weather and tide data for each location on our new 360 Cornwall App
- Carpark (National Trust)
- Public Toilets
- Cafés (Seasonal)
- Hazard: Tides (Rising / Falling)
- Hazard: Strong currents
- Hazard: Deep Water
- Lifeguards (Summer only)
- Dogs allowed (Winter only)
History of Godrevy Lighthouse
Godrevy Lighthouse was built in response to a series of shipwrecks off the Cornish coast, particularly the wreck of the Nile in 1854, which led to the tragic loss of all onboard. Designed to prevent future accidents, the lighthouse was completed in 1859 and originally operated with an oil lamp. The structure stands 26 meters tall and was constructed from stone quarried locally, reflecting the traditional materials of the area. In 1934, the lighthouse was electrified, and by 1995 it was fully automated, requiring no permanent lighthouse keeper. Godrevy Lighthouse is also famous for inspiring Virginia Woolf’s novel To the Lighthouse, which, while fictional, captures the mystique of the remote and isolated structure. Today, although not open to the public, the lighthouse remains an active navigational aid and a treasured part of Cornwall’s coastal heritage, watched over by the National Trust, which manages the surrounding land and ensures its preservation.
Travel / Parking information for Godrevy Lighthouse
Directions to Godrevy Lighthouse
From the A30, take the exit for Hayle and follow signs for Gwithian and Godrevy. Continue along the coast road, which leads directly to Godrevy Point, where the lighthouse can be viewed from the mainland.
Parking for Godrevy Lighthouse
There is a National Trust car park at Godrevy Point, with a pay-and-display system. The car park can get busy, especially during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended. From the car park, it’s a short walk to the viewpoint overlooking the lighthouse.