The Mull of Galloway Lighthouse is perched on dramatic cliffs at the southernmost tip of Scotland, with sweeping views, fascinating history, and a true sense of remote beauty. Built in 1830 by celebrated engineer Robert Stevenson, this iconic white tower has stood as a guiding beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Irish Sea for nearly two centuries.
The Lighthouse rises 26 metres (85 feet) above ground, but thanks to its position on a 99-metre-high clifftop, the light can be seen up to 28 miles out to sea. Though automated since 1988, the Lighthouse still functions today, operated remotely by the Northern Lighthouse Board.
A highlight for visitors is the chance to climb the Lighthouse itself. With 115 steps leading to the top, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views — on a clear day, you might see the Isle of Man, Northern Ireland, and the Cumbrian coast.
Next to the Lighthouse, the Mull of Galloway Experience includes a visitor centre, foghorn station, and an exhibition that tells the story of the lighthouse keepers and the area's maritime history. You'll also find a beautifully restored engine room and hands-on displays for families. You can enjoy some stunning artwork on the walls inside the lighthouse grounds.
Nature lovers will enjoy the RSPB reserve, which covers the surrounding headland. It's a haven for seabirds, wildflowers, and even dolphins or porpoises offshore. Marked trails and viewpoints make it ideal for a scenic walk or a spot of birdwatching.
After exploring, stop in at the Gallie Craig Coffee House, a grass-roofed café with a glass frontage that seems to float over the cliff edge. It's the perfect place to enjoy a hot drink or light lunch with views that stretch across the sea. With a small gift shop, you can pick up a souvenir of visiting Scotland's most southerly point.
The Mull of Galloway is at the end of a remote peninsula in Dumfries and Galloway, about 20 miles south of Stranraer. By car, follow the A716 south from Stranraer through Sandhead and Drummore. The road narrows toward the end along a single-track road, so take your time. We had some cows to navigate past on the road when we visited. The drive from Stranraer is stunning and will take around 40 minutes. There's parking available at the site.
Make the most of your visit to the Rhins of Galloway by exploring nearby gems. The charming village of Port Logan lies just to the north and is known for its peaceful beach and fishpond. A short drive inland leads to Logan Botanic Garden, one of Scotland's most exotic gardens, thanks to the area's mild Gulf Stream climate. The port town of Stranraer offers shops, restaurants, and ferry connections to Northern Ireland.
No, the Lighthouse is open during summer months, on selected day. Please check the Mull of Galloway site for up-to-date opening times.
Children can climb the Lighthouse if they are over a metre tall.
No, you can not book this in advance and arrange this on arrival. You may have to wait, depending on how busy it is.
The Lighthouse itself does not have toilets. The toilets are in the RSPB Scotland Visitor Centre and the Gallie Craig Coffee House.
It last sounded in November 1987 as part of a marine navigation.
On leaving the Lighthouse I would head to the beautiful Port Logan before heading back to Stranraer.
