Explore the Highland Light House: A Timeless Beacon of Light and Heritage

Perched atop windswept cliffs, the Highland Light House stands as a timeless sentinel, guiding ships and souls alike through Scotland’s rugged coastlines. More than a navigational aid, it embodies centuries of resilience, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

Built in the late 18th century, the Highland Light House has witnessed countless storms and shifting tides, serving as a vital beacon for mariners. Its stone tower, weathered by time, reflects both the region’s maritime history and the enduring human spirit. Standing over 50 meters tall, it remains a symbol of stability in a landscape shaped by nature’s power.

Crafted from local granite, the Highland Light House features a distinctive tapered tower with a lantern room housing a powerful Fresnel lens. Its elegant yet functional design blends seamlessly into the dramatic coastal scenery, drawing visitors with its quiet strength and timeless beauty. The interior reveals original keeper’s quarters, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of those who once maintained this maritime guardian.

Visitors to the Highland Light House can explore guided tours that uncover its history, era-specific artifacts, and panoramic views from the summit. Seasonal events, including history evenings and stargazing nights, deepen the connection between past and present. Located just off the main coastal route, it remains one of Scotland’s most cherished heritage sites, accessible to all who seek inspiration in history and nature.

The Highland Light House is more than a structure—it’s a living chronicle of courage, guidance, and beauty. Whether you’re drawn by its architectural grace or its enduring legacy, a visit offers reflection and wonder. Plan your journey today to stand beneath this coastal titan and feel the pulse of history.

Moonrise over Highland Lighthouse Video courtesy of CapeCodOnline.com News & Updates Explore the history, nature, art and culture of Cape Cod. Find a curated selection of best sellers from the Keeper's Shop at Highland Lighthouse at the America's National Parks™ Online Store, where your purchase supports the parks! The Highland Light (previously known as Cape Cod Light) is an active lighthouse on the Cape Cod National Seashore in North Truro, Massachusetts.

[2][3][4] The current tower was erected in 1857, replacing two earlier towers that had been built in 1797 and 1831. Highland Light Station, also known as Cape Cod Light, is located on Outer Cape Cod within Cape Cod National Seashore in North Truro. Commissioned by George Washington and established in 1797 as the 20th light station in the United States, the original 45-foot tall wooden tower and keeper's dwelling were built more than 500 feet from the edge of a 125.

Specialties: National landmark. Oldest, tallest and most accessible lighthouse to tour on Cape Cod! Part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Established in 1797.

The original lighthouse was commissioned by George Washington, and first put into use in 1797. Highland Light would definitely rank in our top 5 favorite lighthouses. Highland Light is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Cape Cod, and features a nearby museum.

You can also do an inexpensive tour of the lighthouse which includes a discount if you have toured the museum. The following was written by Henry David Thoreau in 1865: "THIS LIGHT-HOUSE, known to mariners as the Cape Cod or Highland Light, is one of our "primary sea-coast lights," and is usually the first seen by those approaching the entrance of Massachusetts Bay from Europe." "It was said in 1794 that more vessels were cast. The Highland Lighthouse at Cape Cod National Seashore originated as a 45.

Save $1 if you make a visit to the Highland House Museum! When visitors reach the top of Highland Lighthouse this year they will be welcomed by a bright, new light: a state-of-the-art LED beacon. The new beacon will create a 5 second white flash of light from the tower's Lantern Room, replacing the familiar rotating motion of the previous beacon. Highland Light Architecture and Design The lighthouse boasts a classic conical design, constructed from durable brick and painted white, capped with a black lantern room.

Standing at 66 feet, its light has a focal height of 170 feet above sea level, providing visibility up to 18 nautical miles. Because of fears that mariners might confuse Highland Light with Boston Light (a single fixed light at that time), some consideration was given to the possibility of a double light at the Cape Cod station. Instead, Lincoln and Coxe determined that the lighthouse would be the first in the nation to have a flashing light.