Built in 1875 this operational lighthouse rises more than 170 feet above the wild Atlantic ocean.

The Galley Head Lighthouse is an active 19th century lighthouse outside of Rosscarbery, County Cork, on Ireland’s south coast. At 170 feet above sea level, the lighthouse overlooks St George’s Channel and two beaches, red strand to the east and long strand to the west. The headland is cut off from the mainland by the ancient walls of the old Norman stronghold of Dun Deidi, an important fortress of the local O’Cowhig Clan. The lightkeepers at Galley Head would have witnessed the loss of the Lusitania in 1915 and sighted many British and German vessels during World War I and II. It is one of 65 lighthouses operated by the Commissioners of Irish Lights around the coast of Ireland and continues to provide a vital role in maritime safety today.

https://www.greatlighthouses.com/lighthouses/galley-head/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +353 (0)1 670 4733

Good To Know

  • Clonakilty is home of the famous black pudding.
  • The lighthouse rises 53 metres or over 170 feet above sea level.
  • Irish Landmark Trust has restored two lightkeepers’ houses which offer self-catering accommodation.

Location

GPS: N51.5296552, W-8.9524572

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