Dungeness Old Lighthouse

The Dungeness Old Lighthouse stands on the shingle headland of Dungeness in the Romney Marsh, a flat lowland area in Kent. Built in 1904, it is a round brick tower 43.5 metres high with a white gallery and lantern. The entire tower is painted black except for the gallery and lantern. Trinity House managed the light until 1960 when it was replaced by a newer lighthouse nearby. The lighthouse is notable for being England’s first electrically powered lighthouse in 1862, though oil lamps returned briefly due to unreliable electricity. Its original 1615 wooden tower was replaced in 1635 and again in 1790 before the current structure. The old lighthouse was sold to a private owner and now serves as a heritage attraction. Visitors climb the tower to reach the lantern room and enjoy views across the marsh and sea. The keeper’s house stands nearby, adding to the site’s historic atmosphere. The stark black-and-white tower contrasts with the wild shingle landscape, making it a striking landmark.