Rhins of Galloway Lighthouse Trail

While staying with us at Coorie Retreats in Portpatrick, there is so much for the whole family to explore. We are located on the Rhins of Galloway, a double-headed peninsula on the southwest coast of Scotland. There are six lighthouses dotted around the coastline, and it’s possible to visit them all in one day. This trail includes around 3 hours of total driving time, starting and ending in Portpatrick, and takes in all of the Rhins of Galloway lighthouses.

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Portpatrick village and lighthouse in Scotland

Start the trail at Portpatrick

Portpatrick Lighthouse – This is our closest lighthouse, just a 5-minute drive from Coorie Retreats. So it’s the perfect place to start our trail. Portpatrick Lighthouse stands beside the old keeper’s cottage in the picturesque harbour. Although the current lighthouse only served for a short time, from 1883 to 1900, it remains an iconic feature of the village.

Killantringan Lighthouse – Just 10 minutes northwest of Portpatrick, Klllantringan Lighthouse replaced the earlier structure at Portpatrick. First lit in 1900, it operated until 2005. At 22 metres, it was twice the height of its predecessor. Located at Black Head, there is also a powerful foghorn.

Corsewall Lighthouse – Next we head north to Corsewall Lighthouse. Located at the northern tip of the Rhins of Galloway, this striking structure dates from 1816. Designed by engineer Robert Stevenson, it remains operational, ensuring safe passage for vessels navigating between Northern Ireland and Scotland. Standing at a colossal 36 metres, it’s the tallest lighthouse on our trail.

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Killantringan Lighthouse on the Southern Upland Way

Continuing the trail...

Loch Ryan LighthouseLoch Ryan Lighthouse stands at Cairn Point by the entrance to Loch Ryan. Established in 1847, this was a key route for ships and ferries due to its sheltered location in a natural harbour. Today it serves the busy cross-channel ferries going to and from Northern Ireland.

Port Logan Beacon – We now go south towards Port Logan. Not technically a lighthouse, Port Logan Beacon is a smaller structure at just 9 metres, providing light to the harbour. Designed by the renowned Thomas Telford in 1818, it is still worthy of its place on the trail.

Mull of Galloway Lighthouse – At the southern tip of the peninsula, Mull of Galloway Lighthouse marks Scotland’s most southerly point. It offers a great visitor experience, where you can climb the lighthouse, visit the exhibition of its history, and see the engines and foghorn. First lit in 1830, the structure stands 26 m tall and is a show-stopping way to end our Rhins of Galloway lighthouses trail.

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Lighthouse on the Mull of Galloway

Glamping in Dumfries and Galloway

Then it’s time to head back to Portpatrick and your luxury glamping accommodation at Cooorie Retreats. Find more fantastic things to do during your stay with our Things To Do Guide.

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Testimonials

Wow. What a place.

Wow. What a place. Pure luxury. Loved all the wee welcome touches. Hot tub was superb basked and watched a movie on the projector. Fire pit was an added bonus. Used the pizza oven also. Had a great time. Will definitely be back.

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