Gibb's Hill Lighthouse
Bermuda (UK)
Gibb's Hill Lighthouse, constructed in 1844 by Cottam and Hallen, is one of the world's earliest cast-iron lighthouses and the taller of Bermuda's two lighthouses. Positioned on one of the island's highest hills, it boasts a focal plane 354 feet above sea level, making its light visible from over 100 miles away. The lighthouse features a Fresnel lens from 1904, which originally revolved on mercury but was later upgraded to steel bearings in 2004. Visitors can climb 185 steps arranged in eight flights to reach the top, where panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape await. The tower was automated in 1964, transitioning from manual operation to electric power. A marine radar antenna was added in 1987, and notably, the structure withstood Hurricane Fabian in 2003 with minimal damage. At the base, the former lighthouse keeper’s quarters have been transformed into the Lighthouse Tea Room, serving meals daily. This blend of historical engineering and visitor amenities makes Gibb's Hill Lighthouse a unique and enduring attraction in Bermuda.
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Tip: The best time to visit Gibb's Hill Lighthouse is during daylight hours for clear panoramic views. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Comfortable footwear is recommended for climbing the 185 steps. The Lighthouse Tea Room at the base offers meals throughout the day, making it a convenient spot for refreshments. Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and groups; check the official website or contact the lighthouse directly for details.
Interesting facts
- •Gibb's Hill Lighthouse is one of the first cast-iron lighthouses ever built worldwide.
- •The lighthouse's Fresnel lens from 1904 originally revolved on 1,200 pounds of mercury.
- •Its light can be seen by airplanes from over 100 miles away.
- •The lighthouse has 185 steps divided into eight flights leading to the top.
- •During Hurricane Fabian in 2003, the lighthouse oscillated but remained undamaged, though mercury spilled from the lens support.
- •The former lighthouse keeper's quarters have been converted into the Lighthouse Tea Room serving meals daily.
History
Gibb's Hill Lighthouse was built in 1844 by Cottam and Hallen in London and was erected by the Royal Engineers in Bermuda.
It was among the first lighthouses made of cast iron, a pioneering construction method at the time.
The lighthouse originally used a mercury bath to enable the Fresnel lens to revolve smoothly, a system that lasted until the early 21st century.
Automation of the light occurred in 1964, replacing manual operation with electric power.
The addition of a radar antenna in 1987 modernized its maritime navigation role.
Despite severe weather, including Hurricane Fabian in 2003, the lighthouse has remained structurally sound and operational.
Place Guide
The Cast-Iron Structure1844
The lighthouse's unique construction from cast-iron plates was innovative in the mid-19th century, allowing for prefabrication and durability against harsh marine conditions.
Fresnel Lens1904
Installed in 1904, this lens originally revolved on a mercury bath to reduce friction, later replaced by steel bearings in 2004 for environmental and safety reasons.
Observation Platform
Accessible by climbing 185 steps, the platform offers sweeping views of Bermuda's coastline and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a prime vantage point for visitors.
Lighthouse Tea Room
Located at the base, this restaurant was converted from the lighthouse keeper's former living quarters and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
Contact
Phone: (441) 238-8069
