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Aerail photograph of Buchan Ness lighthouse showing private helipad  near Aberdeen

History

In 1819 petitions were made to erect a lighthouse on Buchan Ness. Robert Stevenson, Engineer of the Lighthouse Board surveyed the area and it was built by 1827.

In 1907 a broad red band was painted on the tower to distinguish it for seafarers by day.

During the World War a drifting mine was washed ashore and exploded some 50 yards from the lighthouse. No one was injured but 3 lantern panes were cracked, 12 other panes of glass were broken in the tower, engine room and cottages. Part of the ceilings of the kitchen and one bedroom of the first assistants house collapsed and locks, hinges and the bolts of four doors were damaged. 20 slates came off the storehouse roof.

In 1910 the light was altered to dioptric, and the lantern power increased from 6500 to 786000 candlepower. In 1978 it was converted to electricity, and in 1988 it was automated.

There are 166 steps to the top of the tower.

Location

The lighthouse can be found in the village of Boddam just 33 miles from Aberdeen International Airport

It can be accessed by car or other vehicle by using the bridge, and there is ample parking space, there is also a helipad.

The surrounding area has breathtaking views of the sea, and numerous interesting places to visit.

Attractions:
All these attraction are situated within a few miles from our lighthouse.

The Bullers of Buchan
A spectacular archway in the sea just off the coast. (Please note this is a rugged footpath and very close to cliff edges. Great care must be taken at all times especially for children and pets.)

Slains Castle
Reputed to be the place where Bram Stoker conceived the idea for his infamous creation Dracula, this ruined castle is perched on the clifftops and has an eerie atmosphere. Its position on the cliffs also makes it a place that you must take great care when visiting.

Coastal Trail
Planned to be linked to Nortrail, a footpath around the coastline, it links all the local coastal areas, and walkers can appreciate the wild life, including seabirds, dolphins, seals, spectacular rock scenery, and secluded coastal villages.

Peterhead
The largest white fish port in Europe is an interesting harbour where oil industry and fishing boats mingle, also a yacht marina and bay with waterskiing and water sports, and a museum which contains lots of whaling memorabilia and local information. Peterhead golf course, among the dunes, and across the links, is a classic example of Scottish seaside golf at its best and toughest. Founded in 1841, it is one of the oldest clubs in Britain

Fraserburgh
A fishing port with working harbour, and Kinnaird Head Lighthouse and Lighthouse Museum. Open to the public for visits and functions. Fraserburgh has sandy, unspoiled beaches, ideal for walking, windsurfing, water-skiing etc.

Cruden Bay
A fishing village with a small harbour and salmon fishing boats. Lovely walks from the old village, across the bridge, and along a few miles of sandy beach, with dunes bordering on the golf club. Cruden Bay golf club is rated 52nd in the world, it is truly a championship golf course, in a spectacular links setting. The 9 hole course is said to be the most challenging in Scotland.

Newburgh
Situated on the Ythan estuary- one of the largest salt water estuaries in Europe- Also a Nature reserve- Great for bird watching , river fishing/ angling, and golf- The golf course at Newburgh is the epitome of the typical Scottish links course, and is noted for the quality of its greens, its playability, regardless of the weather, and its magnificent setting.

Whisky and Castle Trails
Both distilleries and castles are easily accessible from here, and Balmoral Castle, the Queen’s summer residence , and Royal Deeside, are only around 2 hours drive away.

Golf Trail
Within 20 mins. many only 10 mins, drive from Buchan Ness lighthouse, there are 9 courses, covering links, heath, and parkland. Within Aberdeenshire there are 70 courses. The area has an amazing selection of courses, ranging from championship links courses like Cruden Bay, to new clubs like Longside, so whatever your handicap, there is something to suit.

Links

‘Visit Peterhead’

www.visitpeterhead.org.uk

Cruden Bay

www.crudenbay.org.uk

‘Visit Fraserburgh’

www.visitfraserburgh.com

Slains Castle

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slains_Castle

Lighthouse Museum

www.lighthousemuseum.org.uk

Macduff Aquarium

www.macduff-aquarium.org.uk/

Boddam Community

www.boddam.org.uk

Heartland

www.albamusic.net

Ask Dougal

www.extramilescotland.co.uk

Undiscovered Scotland

www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk

The Pitsligo Arms

www.thepitsligoarms.co.uk

Kilmarnock Arms

www.kilmarnockarms.com/

Copyright © 2008 Buchan Ness Lighthouse Holidays All Rights Reserved.