Polperro

Precariously positioned on Spy House Point, Polperro – this diminutive lighthouse was in operation until it was decommissioned in 1958.

When in operation, the light was visible between up to 19km to sea. It was built in 1911, replacing a previous lighthouse built in 1904. 

Reached by walking east along the coastal path, from Polperro, the point provides fantastic views out to sea. With a fall of almost 50 metres to the sea below, it’s worth taking your time and using the handrails provided.

The white painted brick beacon is 5 metres high and has a white painted entrance door. On top is a lantern. Steps reach the light and green painted railings surround the light but the old white painted stone rubble wall, which enclosed the unit, has been demolished.

The old Coastguard lookout which used to be adjacent to the light was demolished in 1989 but the path to both the lighthouse and the lookout bear the name of Reuben’s Walk; named after Reuben Oliver, a local magistrate and Parish Council official who as an old man, although blind, used to walk out to the light whenever he could.