Tayport East Lighthouse

Tayport East Lighthouse stands on the southern shore of the Firth of Tay in the small town of Tayport, Fife. Built in 1823, it is a modest stone tower rising 12 metres above the shoreline. A short walk to the west is the taller Tayport High Lighthouse, which reaches 24 metres and once worked in tandem with its smaller neighbour. Both lights guided vessels into the firth until the newer Tayport Pile Lighthouse took over in 1848. The low light was then retired, leaving its simple granite form as a quiet reminder of the past. The site is worth the journey for anyone interested in Scotland’s maritime heritage. The contrast between the two Tayport towers shows how lighthouse design evolved in the early 19th century. Tayport Low’s modest height and position close to the water made it ideal for marking the southern approach. Its partner, Tayport High, stood further inland to give a clear vertical range. Together they formed a practical pair before technology moved on. Visitors find a small stone tower standing beside a quiet stretch of coast. The low light is easy to reach along a short path from the town centre. Nearby, the taller high light remains in use, creating a clear comparison of scale and purpose. The firth’s wide waters and distant hills provide a peaceful backdrop. The contrast between the retired tower and the working one tells part of the story without needing words.