Tater-du Lighthouse is a coastal lighthouse on Cornwall’s south coast, located between Lamorna and Porthcurno, providing vital maritime navigation.
Tater-du Lighthouse is a striking and relatively modern lighthouse situated on Cornwall’s southern coastline, between Lamorna Cove and Porthcurno. It was constructed in 1965 and stands as a key navigational aid for ships sailing through the treacherous waters of the western English Channel.
This area is notorious for its rocky coastline and frequent fog, which posed significant risks to vessels before the lighthouse was built. Managed by Trinity House, Tater-du is an important part of Cornwall’s maritime infrastructure. Though not open to the public, the lighthouse can be viewed from nearby coastal paths, which offer stunning vistas of the surrounding coastline and sea.
The closest parking is found at Lamorna Cove, where you will also find a great cafe (open seasonally). You then need to take a 20-25 walk west along the south west coast path to reach the lighthouse.
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- Hazard: Cliffs
- Hazard: Strong currents
- Not suitable for wheelchairs
- Dogs allowed (All year)
- 30+ minutes walk from carpark
History of Tater-du Lighthouse
Tater-du Lighthouse was commissioned and built in response to a series of maritime accidents in the 1960s, with the loss of several ships highlighting the need for improved navigational aids along this stretch of coastline.
The lighthouse became fully operational in 1965, with the design and construction overseen by Trinity House, the authority responsible for lighthouses in England. Unlike many older lighthouses in Cornwall, which date back to the 19th century or earlier, Tater-du was built using modern construction techniques and materials, making it a more recent addition to Cornwall’s historic chain of lighthouses.
It was also one of the first lighthouses to be automated, meaning it required no permanent keeper, a significant shift from the traditional manned lighthouses of earlier times.
The lighthouse stands 15 metres tall, with a light visible from up to 20 nautical miles out to sea, guiding ships safely past the hazardous rocks that lie off this part of Cornwall’s coast. Although its primary function is to warn mariners, Tater-du has become an iconic landmark for locals and walkers exploring the nearby cliffs.
Travel / Parking information for Tater-du Lighthouse
Directions to Tater-du Lighthouse
From the A30, take the A3071 towards Penzance. Continue along the B3315 towards Lamorna. Park at Lamorna and follow the coast path west for about 20 minutes.
Parking for Tater-du Lighthouse
Parking is limited near Tater-du Lighthouse. Visitors can park in Lamorna Cove’s pay-and-display car park and walk along the coastal path to view the lighthouse. Restrictions apply in peak seasons.