Tarbat Ness Lighthouse, Easter Ross & Black Isle

Lighthouse in Easter Ross & Black Isle

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Thomas K

Tarbat Ness Lighthouse stands proudly at the north-west tip of the Tarbat Ness peninsula, a remote and windswept headland near Portmahomack on Scotland's east coast. Engineered by Robert Stevenson and first lit in 1830, this soaring white tower with its two bold red bands is one of the tallest lighthouses in Scotland. For many visitors, it is one of the best places to visit in Portmahomack thanks to its combination of dramatic scenery and fascinating past.

The lighthouse overlooks a coastline shaped by powerful storms, ancient conflicts, and deep-rooted folklore. The peninsula has witnessed Viking battles, clan feuds, shipwrecks, and even earthquakes strong enough to rattle the lamp glasses in the tower. Today, the area is also renowned for birdlife, with many migratory species stopping here as they cross the North Sea.

History and Significance of Tarbat Ness Lighthouse
Things to See and Do in Tarbat Ness Lighthouse
How to Get to Tarbat Ness Lighthouse
Practical Tips on Visiting Tarbat Ness Lighthouse
Where to Stay close to Tarbat Ness Lighthouse
Is Tarbat Ness Lighthouse Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Tarbat Ness Lighthouse
Nearby Attractions to Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

History and Significance of Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

The story of Tarbat Ness stretches back long before the lighthouse. In the 11th century, Thorfinn the Mighty is said to have defeated “Karl Hundason”—possibly Macbeth—at the Battle of Tarbat Ness. Later, in the 1480s, the Battle of Tarbat saw Clan Ross trap and kill a raiding party from Clan Mackay in Tarbat Old Church at nearby Portmahomack, leaving a lasting mark on local memory.

The lighthouse itself was commissioned after a devastating storm in November 1826 that sank 16 vessels in the Moray Firth. Robert Stevenson, famed engineer of the Stevenson lighthouse dynasty, designed the new tower, while James Smith of Inverness oversaw construction at a cost of £9,361. The light first shone on 26 January 1830, guiding ships through one of Scotland's most treacherous stretches of water.

According to tradition, the site may once have hosted a Roman fort and later a place associated with witchcraft. Earthquake tremors have been reported over the centuries, occasionally shaking the tower. Despite its purpose, wrecks still occurred, and keeper William Davidson once saved four sailors—an act noted in Bella Bathurst’s writings.

Things to See and Do in Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

Visitors can admire the impressive 53-metre tower from the surrounding headland, where the lighthouse’s red and white stripes stand out dramatically against the sky. Although the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the exterior and its coastal setting offer plenty of photographic opportunities.

Walking paths around the point allow visitors to explore rugged cliffs, open grassland, and far-reaching views across the Moray Firth. Look for seabirds, migratory species, and occasionally marine life offshore. The sense of space and isolation makes it a rewarding place for quiet contemplation or coastal wandering.

Nearby Portmahomack adds historical context with its ancient church, local museum, and traces of the region’s early Christian settlement. Many visitors combine the lighthouse walk with time spent exploring the village’s beach, harbour, or heritage attractions.

How to Get to Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

The nearest airport is Inverness Airport, around 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Easter Ross & Black Isle on Booking.com.

There is no train station on the Tarbat peninsula. The nearest stations are Tain and Fearn, from which local buses or taxis can reach Portmahomack and the surrounding area. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Most travelers reach Tarbat Ness by car, following minor roads from Portmahomack to the end of the peninsula. Parking is limited near the lighthouse, with a short walk required to reach the site.

Practical Tips on Visiting Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

Best time to visit Tarbat Ness Lighthouse: Clear days offer the best views across the Moray Firth and toward distant hills.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free; the site is freely accessible.
Opening hours: Open year-round, though best visited during daylight.
Official website: Check the Northern Lighthouse Board pages for lighthouse details.
How long to spend: Around 1–2 hours, depending on walking routes.
Accessibility: Paths can be uneven and exposed; not suitable for wheelchairs.
Facilities: No facilities at the lighthouse; amenities are in Portmahomack.
Photography tip: Sunrise and sunset provide striking light on the tower and coastline.
Guided tours: None available; the lighthouse is not open to the public.
Nearby food options: Portmahomack offers cafés and a local pub.

Where to Stay close to Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

Portmahomack and the wider Easter Ross area offer several welcoming places to stay. In the village, The Castle Hotel provides comfortable accommodation close to the harbour and beach. A nearby coastal option is Seaboard Hotel, ideal for exploring the shoreline. Travellers wanting a country-house style stay can choose Kincraig Castle Hotel, which offers historic charm and views over the Cromarty Firth.

Is Tarbat Ness Lighthouse Worth Visiting?

Yes, Tarbat Ness Lighthouse is well worth visiting for its sweeping coastal views, powerful sense of history, and peaceful walking paths. The combination of dramatic landscape, Stevenson engineering, and layers of ancient and modern stories makes this a memorable stop along Scotland's east coast.

FAQs for Visiting Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

Can you climb the lighthouse?
No, the lighthouse is not open to the public.

Is parking available?
There is limited parking near the end of the peninsula, with a short walk to the lighthouse.

How long is the walk?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the area around the lighthouse.

Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control near livestock.

Is the site exposed to the weather?
Yes, the peninsula is very exposed; bring warm and windproof clothing.

Nearby Attractions to Tarbat Ness Lighthouse

Portmahomack – A historic fishing village with a beach, harbour, and local museum.
Tarbat Discovery Centre – Exhibits on early Christian history in the region.
Dornoch – A charming coastal town with a cathedral, shops, and long sandy beach.
Tain – Scotland’s oldest royal burgh with heritage sites and the famous Glenmorangie Distillery.
Shandwick Stone – A beautifully carved Pictish cross-slab on the Seaboard Coast.

The Tarbat Ness Lighthouse appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Easter Ross & Black Isle!

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