New London Ledge Light
Explore a unique French Second Empire lighthouse, delve into maritime history, and uncover tales of its resident ghost.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the best light for photos
New London Ledge Light
Best Time
Catch the best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique French Second Empire lighthouse, delve into maritime history, and uncover tales of its resident ghost.
"Unbelievable and memorable experience here!! The tour guides were fantastic, the boat ride trip out and back was very enjoyable."
🎯 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours to the New London Ledge Light are boat-access only and sell out fast. Book ahead!
👻 Listen for Ernie's Ghost
Locally famous for its resident ghost, Ernie. Keep an ear out for unexplained noises!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New London Ledge Lighthouse
Southwest Ledge, New London Harbor
A distinctive red brick and granite lighthouse with a French Second Empire style, topped by a mansard roof and lantern.
Inside the Lighthouse Museum
Within the lighthouse
Explore artifacts, posters, and readings detailing the local waterfront history and the lighthouse's past.
Scenic Boat Tour
Departing from New London
Enjoy a pleasant boat ride to and from the lighthouse, offering scenic views of the harbor and coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Boat Tour in Advance
Embrace the Ghostly Tales
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours to the New London Ledge Light are boat-access only and sell out fast. Book ahead!
👻 Listen for Ernie's Ghost
Locally famous for its resident ghost, Ernie. Keep an ear out for unexplained noises!
📸 Capture Unique Architecture
This lighthouse boasts a unique French Second Empire style, unlike many others.
🛥️ Enjoy the Harbor Views
The boat ride offers beautiful scenic views of New London Harbor and the Long Island Sound.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Boat Tours Early
Tours to the New London Ledge Light are boat-access only and sell out fast. Book ahead!
👻 Listen for Ernie's Ghost
Locally famous for its resident ghost, Ernie. Keep an ear out for unexplained noises!
📸 Capture Unique Architecture
This lighthouse boasts a unique French Second Empire style, unlike many others.
🛥️ Enjoy the Harbor Views
The boat ride offers beautiful scenic views of New London Harbor and the Long Island Sound.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the New London Ledge Light for its unique architecture, engaging historical exhibits, and the enjoyable boat tour experience. The rumored ghost of Ernie adds an intriguing layer of mystique. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mention that the tour duration could feel a bit short for those wanting extensive exploration.
"Unbelievable and memorable experience here!! The tour guides were fantastic, the boat ride trip out and back was very enjoyable, the weather was perfect, and there was plenty of informational material in the form of posters and other readings, artifacts, souvenirs, mementos, etcetera within the lighthouse to peruse for your discovery!! Unbelievable, scenic views presented a capstone to this day! Would definitely recommend everybody go at least once! Thanks for a very enjoyable 2 hours! 👍✌️☺️🥂"
Ken Morris
"We passed close to the New London Ledge Lighthouse on the New London to Orient Point. Close enough to take pictures and enjoy the view. It looks nothing like any other lighthouse I've seen. This is a red brick and granite building in the French Second Empire style. The cast-iron lantern rises from the center of the building's mansard roof.
New London Ledge Lighthouse was built in 1909 on the southwest ledge at the entrance to the New London Harbor. The United States Coast Guard took over in 1939 upon its merger with the Lighthouse Service and the light was automated in 1987. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
New London Ledge is locally famous for the ghost of an early keeper named Ernie who allegedly haunts the lighthouse. The Coast Guard crew on duty at the lighthouse reported unexplained knockings taking place at night, as well as doors opening and closing repeatedly, the television turning on and off by itself sporadically, and the unexplained removal of sheets from beds. We couldn't see Ernie at 6:45 this morning. Maybe he sleeps in?"
Bruce InCharlotte
"DO IT!! Such a wonderful experience!"
Megan Matto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to the New London Ledge Light is exclusively by boat. Tours are available and typically depart from New London. It's recommended to book these boat tours in advance as they are the only way to visit the lighthouse.
Yes, you can see the New London Ledge Light from various points along the shore in New London, though getting up close requires a boat tour.
New London is accessible by car via I-95. It also has a train station served by Amtrak, making it a convenient destination for those traveling from major cities.
Parking availability can vary depending on the specific tour operator's departure point. It's advisable to check with your tour provider for detailed parking information.
The boat ride is generally enjoyable, but conditions can vary. Those prone to seasickness might want to take precautions. Check with the tour operator for any specific accessibility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the New London Ledge Light tours must be booked in advance, as they are the only way to access the lighthouse. Check the official lighthouse preservation society or local tour operators for booking information.
Tour availability and operating hours are seasonal and depend on the tour operators. It's best to consult their schedules when booking your tickets.
The cost of visiting the New London Ledge Light is primarily the price of the boat tour. Prices can vary between tour operators, so it's recommended to compare options.
Typically, there are no strict age restrictions for the boat tours, but children should be accompanied by an adult. Some tour operators may have specific guidelines.
A tour ticket usually includes the boat ride to and from the lighthouse, and access to explore the lighthouse interior, which often features a small museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a museum with artifacts, posters, and readings about local waterfront history. You can also learn about the lighthouse's past and its famous ghost, Ernie.
Yes, the lighthouse is famously rumored to be haunted by its former keeper, Ernie. Visitors have reported unexplained noises and occurrences.
The New London Ledge Light is notable for its French Second Empire style, featuring red brick and granite construction with a distinctive mansard roof.
A typical visit, including the boat ride and time spent exploring the lighthouse, lasts about 2 hours.
Restroom facilities may be limited or unavailable at the lighthouse itself. It's advisable to use facilities before departing on your boat tour.
📸 📸 Photography
The boat tour provides excellent opportunities for photos from various angles on the water. Once at the lighthouse, you can capture its unique architecture and surrounding views.
Photography is generally allowed inside the lighthouse, but it's always a good idea to confirm with your tour guide upon arrival.
Late morning or early afternoon often provides good lighting for exterior shots. Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) can offer dramatic lighting if your tour schedule permits.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historic sites and harbors. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the lighthouse's full structure and surrounding seascape. A telephoto lens can be helpful for details from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a treasure hunt for historical clues or a quest to spot the lighthouse's resident ghost, Ernie! This can make the experience more interactive and memorable for kids. Ensure children are supervised closely during the boat ride and while exploring the lighthouse. The 2-hour duration of the tour is generally manageable for most children's attention spans.
👻 Ghost Enthusiasts
Listen closely for unexplained sounds and keep an eye out for any unusual occurrences during your tour. The historical context of the lighthouse, combined with its spectral reputation, makes for a truly unique and thrilling experience. It’s a perfect destination for those who love a good ghost story and a bit of local folklore.
📸 Photographers
When exploring the interior, look for opportunities to photograph the historical artifacts and the interplay of light through the lantern room. Consider visiting during the late morning or early afternoon for optimal natural light on the exterior. Remember to check regulations regarding drone photography if you're interested in aerial shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of New London Ledge Light
The United States Coast Guard took over the operation of the lighthouse in 1939, and it was automated in 1987. Its addition to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 underscores its historical significance. The lighthouse served as a crucial navigational aid for ships entering and leaving the busy port of New London for decades.
Today, the lighthouse is preserved and offers tours that allow visitors to step back in time. The interior houses a museum filled with artifacts, historical posters, and informative readings that delve into the rich maritime history of the local waterfront. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the life of lighthouse keepers and the evolution of maritime navigation.
The Legend of Ernie: A Haunted Lighthouse
Alleged hauntings include unexplained knockings, doors opening and closing on their own, televisions turning on and off spontaneously, and sheets being mysteriously removed from beds. These tales have cemented the lighthouse's spooky allure, drawing curious visitors eager to experience the atmosphere firsthand. While Ernie may not make an appearance during every tour, the persistent legends add a unique and thrilling dimension to the visit.
Many visitors find the ghost stories to be a fun and intriguing part of the New London Ledge Light experience. It transforms a historical tour into something more memorable and conversation-worthy. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the tales of Ernie contribute to the lighthouse's enduring mystique.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit