Folkestone Lighthouse

The Folkestone Lighthouse stands at the end of the harbour arm in Folkestone, Kent. The harbour arm itself dates from 1809 and has been restored as a lively promenade lined with shops, cafés and entertainment venues. The lighthouse was added in 1860 on the breakwater and its round stone tower rises nine metres above the waves. Its white lantern flashes twice every ten seconds in clear weather and every two seconds when fog shrouds the coast. A deep electric horn sounds four blasts each minute to warn ships in poor visibility. The entire structure was refurbished in 2011, cleaning the stonework, repainting the lantern and renewing the lantern panes. Visitors walk the length of the harbour arm to reach the lighthouse, passing modern eateries and small boutiques along the way. The breakwater offers wide views over the English Channel and the town’s skyline. The unlit tower itself remains closed, but the surrounding promenade and the restored arm provide a pleasant place to stroll and watch the ferries and fishing boats.