Low Lighthouse (Lighthouse on Legs)
A unique wooden lighthouse on stilts, affectionately called the 'Lighthouse on Legs,' protecting ships from tidal waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Walk on sand, get close
Low Lighthouse (Lighthouse on Legs)
Best Time
Walk on sand, get close
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique wooden lighthouse on stilts, affectionately called the 'Lighthouse on Legs,' protecting ships from tidal waters.
"This unique, wooden lighthouse, affectionately nicknamed the 'Lighthouse on Legs,' is one of the most distinctive landmarks on the Somerset coast."
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Crucial for accessing the lighthouse. Low tide lets you walk right up to it!
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Mud can be soft! Sturdy shoes or boots are recommended, especially if you have pets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Lighthouse on Legs'
Burnham-on-Sea Beach
A unique wooden lighthouse built on nine timber piles, standing tall on the mudflats.
Spectacular Sunsets
Burnham-on-Sea Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the sea, with the lighthouse as a dramatic silhouette.
Coastal Walk & Dog-Friendly Fun
Burnham-on-Sea Beach
Enjoy a scenic walk along the beach, perfect for dogs who can also swim under the lighthouse.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide is Key
Parking and Beach Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Crucial for accessing the lighthouse. Low tide lets you walk right up to it!
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Mud can be soft! Sturdy shoes or boots are recommended, especially if you have pets.
🚗 Park Smartly
Seafront parking is plentiful, then enjoy a scenic beach walk.
📸 Capture the Magic
This unique lighthouse is a photographer's dream, especially at sunrise or sunset. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Crucial for accessing the lighthouse. Low tide lets you walk right up to it!
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
Mud can be soft! Sturdy shoes or boots are recommended, especially if you have pets.
🚗 Park Smartly
Seafront parking is plentiful, then enjoy a scenic beach walk.
📸 Capture the Magic
This unique lighthouse is a photographer's dream, especially at sunrise or sunset.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Your furry friends will love the beach and swimming opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique 'Lighthouse on Legs,' especially during low tide when they can walk right up to it. The stunning sunsets are a major draw, creating a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere. While the beach is generally loved, some find the mud can be a bit challenging if not prepared.
"I recommend planning your visit during low tide. This allows you to walk right out onto the sands, getting up close to the lighthouse and enjoying uninterrupted views without contending with the notoriously soft mud closer to the esplanade."
Andrew Seaford
"Amazing sunsets can be seen here whether tide in or out. Stunningly beautiful ones. So peacefully & I only live a 5min walk from front door to sardines."
Zippy Doodah
"The Burnham-on-Sea Low Lighthouse, fondly referred to as 'the Lighthouse on Legs',
has a rich and dynamic history that has evolved significantly since
its construction in 1832 and continues to play an operational role today.
Additional information.
Visiting is easy as this is on the public beach, the nearest parking would be on Poplar Road
( 51.24464740501554, -3.000507843662151) but this is busy.
There is however plenty of parking on the sea front
(51.2391062944699, -2.9989930766074693) then there is an easy 1.1 KM walk along the beach.
There are lots of facilities on the sea front."
David Nurse
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Low Lighthouse is located on Burnham-on-Sea beach. You can park at the seafront and enjoy a 1.1 KM walk along the beach to reach it. Poplar Road parking is also an option but tends to be busier.
Yes, there is ample parking available on the sea front. Poplar Road also offers parking but can be busy.
The best approach is to walk along the beach during low tide. This allows for easy access and great photo opportunities.
While you can see the lighthouse from the beach at any time, visiting during low tide is highly recommended for the best experience.
The walk from the sea front parking is approximately 1.1 KM along the beach and is generally flat and easy, especially at low tide.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Low Lighthouse as it is located on a public beach.
The lighthouse is visible from the beach at all times. However, access to walk out to it is dependent on the tide.
There is no admission fee for Burnham-on-Sea beach. Parking fees may apply depending on the location.
The Low Lighthouse is a historic structure and is not typically open for public interior tours. Its primary function is as a landmark.
The main restriction is the tide. Always check tide times before planning your visit to ensure safe access.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the lighthouse.
For sunsets, use a tripod and a lower ISO for sharp images. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the lighthouse and its surroundings.
Experiment with different angles from the beach, especially during low tide. Getting closer to the lighthouse on the sand provides unique perspectives.
Drone regulations vary. Always check local bylaws and aviation authority rules before flying a drone in the area.
Its distinctive 'legs' and its location on the mudflats, especially with dramatic tides or sunsets, make it a very photogenic landmark.
🎫 🐶 Pet-Friendly
Yes, dogs are welcome on Burnham-on-Sea beach and can even swim under the lighthouse.
Bring a towel for drying off after swimming and a bucket if needed. Be mindful of the soft sand.
While generally dog-friendly, always be aware of any seasonal restrictions or local signage.
The beach is generally safe, but always supervise your dog, especially around water and during tide changes.
Yes, dogs can accompany you when you walk out to the lighthouse during low tide.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, prioritize low tide to ensure easy access to the lighthouse and a safer walking experience. The seafront also offers amenities like cafes and restrooms, making it convenient for families. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the beach, taking advantage of the open space and scenic views.
🐶 Dog Owners
When visiting with your dog, it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear as the sand can be soft and muddy, especially further from the promenade. Bringing a towel to dry off your dog after a swim is also a good idea. Always be mindful of other beachgoers and ensure your dog is under control.
📸 Photographers
+1During low tide, you can get incredibly close to the lighthouse, allowing for unique perspectives and compositions. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the lighthouse and its surroundings. Don't forget a tripod for those low-light conditions to ensure sharp, stunning images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the 'Lighthouse on Legs'
+1While its operational role has evolved, the Low Lighthouse remains an iconic landmark. Its presence is deeply tied to the maritime heritage of the area, serving as a constant reminder of the challenges and ingenuity involved in coastal navigation. The lighthouse's enduring appeal lies not just in its history but also in its striking visual presence, particularly when viewed against the dramatic backdrop of the sea and sky.
Visitors are drawn to its enigmatic appearance and the stories it holds. The lighthouse is more than just a building; it's a symbol of resilience and a testament to the ever-changing relationship between humanity and the sea. Its continued presence on the beach makes it a focal point for locals and tourists alike, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Experiencing Burnham-on-Sea Beach
When the tide is out, the beach transforms, revealing vast stretches of sand that are perfect for walking and exploring. This is when the 'Lighthouse on Legs' is most accessible, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with this unusual structure. However, it's crucial to be aware of the soft mud, which can be challenging to navigate if not prepared.
The beach is also renowned for its stunning sunsets. The interplay of light and color over the water, with the lighthouse silhouetted against the sky, creates a truly magical scene. Photographers and nature lovers alike will find ample opportunities to capture breathtaking views.
+1
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