Rhue Lighthouse Review: History & Visitor Guide

There are several lighthouses you can visit on the NC500 route. Rhue Lighthouse was one of my favourites. It’s a lot smaller than others like Dunnet Head Lighthouse or Chanonry Lighthouse, but that makes it a little more unique I guess. You can also get a lot closer to it than others.

I also loved the multicoloured glass, seeing the sheep nearby and the dramatic, rugged scenery. I recommend visiting Ardvreck Castle, Stac Pollaidh view and Ullapool. I wish we made more time to visit Ullapool in the day time at it looked to have some great shops, cafes and restaurants. We arrived for dinner, just as shops were closing.

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My Photos of Rhue Lighthouse

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History of Rhue Lighthouse

Rhue Lighthouse stands on a rugged headland just north of Ullapool, guarding the entrance to Loch Broom on Scotland’s northwest coast. It was built in 1952 by the Northern Lighthouse Board, replacing earlier light beacons that had guided ships into the loch since the 19th century. Though modest in size, the lighthouse plays a vital role in maritime safety, helping vessels navigate the often stormy waters of the Minch, the strait between the mainland and the Outer Hebrides.

The lighthouse was designed by David Alan Stevenson, part of the famous Stevenson family of engineers — cousins of author Robert Louis Stevenson. Unlike traditional towers, Rhue Lighthouse is a squat, square structure with a white-painted exterior and lantern room, blending into the coastal landscape. It remains automated and unmanned, maintained remotely by the Northern Lighthouse Board.

Today, Rhue Lighthouse is celebrated more for its wild setting than its size, offering panoramic views, dramatic sunsets, and a peaceful escape just minutes from Ullapool.

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10 Interesting Facts About Rhue Lighthouse

1. The lighthouse was built in 1952, replacing earlier beacons dating back to the 1870s.
2. It was designed by David Alan Stevenson, part of Scotland’s renowned lighthouse-building dynasty.
3. Rhue Lighthouse marks the entrance to Loch Broom, guiding ships into Ullapool Harbour.
4. The structure is only 6 metres tall, making it one of Scotland’s smallest operational lighthouses.
5. The light is automated, flashing white every 3 seconds, visible for up to 10 nautical miles.
6. The surrounding headland is rich in rock pools, with sea urchins, hermit crabs, and barnacles.
7. The site offers stunning views of Ben More Coigach, Beinn Ghoblach, and the Summer Isles.
8. The lighthouse is a popular spot for sunset photography, with clear skies offering vivid colours.
9. It’s located on the North Coast 500 route, making it a scenic detour for road trippers.
10. The nearby village of Rhue is home to artists and crofters, adding cultural charm to the visit.

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Things to See and Do at Rhue Lighthouse

• Explore the Rock Pools
  Search for sea creatures among the tidal pools — especially lively at low tide.
• Watch the Sunset
  Stay into the evening for spectacular colours over the Minch and the distant Hebrides.
• Spot Wildlife
  Look out for seals, seabirds, and even dolphins in the waters around the headland.
• Visit Ullapool
  Explore the nearby harbour town with its galleries, cafés, and ferry terminal to Stornoway.
• Enjoy a Coastal Walk
  Extend your visit with a longer walk along the shore toward Ardmair Bay or Leckmelm.

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Practical Information for Visiting Rhue Lighthouse

• Location: Rhue, near Ullapool, Highland, Scotland IV26 2TJ
• Opening Times: Open access, year-round
• Entry Fees: Free
• Recommended Visit Duration: 30–60 minutes
  (Allow extra time for photography or coastal walks)
• Tickets: No booking required
• Parking:
  • Free car park at Rhue (NH 097972)
  • 10-minute walk to lighthouse via turf path
• Accessibility:
  • Path is mostly level but uneven in places; not suitable for wheelchairs
  • Sturdy footwear recommended
• Dogs:
  • Welcome on leads
• Food & Drink:
  • Cafés and restaurants in Ullapool (3 mi)
• Toilets:
  • Public toilets available in Ullapool
• Transport:
  • Car: Off A835, 5-minute drive from Ullapool
  • Bus: Infrequent service to Rhue turnoff (1.5 mi walk)
• Nearby: Ullapool Museum, Ardmair Beach, Leckmelm Gardens, Corrieshalloch Gorge

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