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Bull Point Lighthouse
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A Beacon of Safety on North Devon’s Rugged Coastline
Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Mortehoe, Bull Point Lighthouse is a striking coastal landmark that has guided ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Bristol Channel for over a century. Built in 1879 to warn sailors of the dangerous rocky coastline, the lighthouse remains fully operational today, though it has been automated since 1975.
With its stunning coastal views, rich maritime history, and scenic walking trails, Bull Point Lighthouse is a must-visit location for those exploring North Devon’s wild and rugged coastline.
A History of Shipwrecks & Maritime Safety
The North Devon coast, particularly around Mortehoe, has long been notoriously dangerous for sailors. Before Bull Point Lighthouse was built, the jagged rocks and unpredictable tides had claimed countless vessels, making this one of the most hazardous stretches of coastline in the Bristol Channel.
⚓ The Call for a Lighthouse Following a series of shipwrecks in the 19th century, maritime authorities recognised the urgent need for a warning beacon to prevent further disasters.
🏛 Construction & Original Design The first lighthouse was built in 1879, with a traditional design featuring a white tower and bright flashing light, ensuring ships could navigate safely past Bull Point’s hazardous waters.
🔥 The Landslide of 1972 Over time, the unstable cliffs around Bull Point began to shift, and in 1972, a significant landslide damaged the original lighthouse, forcing it to be demolished and rebuilt further inland. The new automated lighthouse, completed in 1975, now stands on a more stable foundation, continuing to guide vessels safely along the coast.
Exploring Bull Point Lighthouse: What You Can See & Do
While Bull Point Lighthouse is not open to the public, the surrounding area offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in North Devon.
🌊 Dramatic Coastal Views The clifftop location provides sweeping panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean, with waves crashing against the rugged shoreline below.
🚶 Scenic Walking Trails Bull Point is a highlight of the South West Coast Path, with stunning walks leading to Morte Point, Rockham Bay, and Lee Bay.
📸 Photography & Wildlife Spotting A fantastic spot for capturing seascapes, sunsets, and local wildlife, including seabirds and occasional seals.
Wildlife at Bull Point
The unspoiled cliffs and coastal meadows surrounding Bull Point Lighthouse are home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great location for nature lovers.
🦅 Seabirds & Birds of Prey The cliffs provide nesting spots for gulls, fulmars, and cormorants, while peregrine falcons can sometimes be seen hunting along the coastline.
🦭 Grey Seals Occasionally spotted basking on nearby rocks or swimming in the waters below the cliffs.
🦊 Foxes & Badgers The moorland and grassland around the lighthouse is home to foxes, badgers, and other small mammals.
🦋 Butterflies & Coastal Flora During summer, the cliffs come alive with wildflowers, attracting a variety of butterflies and pollinators.
Things to Know Before Visiting
📍 Location: Near Mortehoe, North Devon, along the South West Coast Path
🚶 Access: The lighthouse can be viewed from the public footpath, but there is no public entry inside the building
🥾 Best Walking Routes: Start from Mortehoe village, following the coastal path to Bull Point, or continue toward Rockham Bay and Lee Bay for a longer scenic walk
🚗 Parking: Available in Mortehoe village, with footpath access to the lighthouse
A Coastal Gem of North Devon
Though modernised and automated, Bull Point Lighthouse remains a symbol of North Devon’s maritime heritage, standing as a silent guardian against the powerful Atlantic Ocean.
For walkers, photographers, and history lovers, Bull Point offers an unforgettable experience, blending breathtaking coastal scenery, rich maritime history, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Whether you’re exploring the South West Coast Path, capturing stunning seascapes, or simply soaking in the raw, rugged charm of North Devon’s coastline, Bull Point Lighthouse is a destination not to be missed.