No. 2 of 6 in The Lighthouse Series
Hook Head Lighthouse
County Wexford, Ireland
Why it belongs in the series
Hook Head is often described as one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world, with a medieval stone tower that feels more like a small castle than a beacon. It is a rare chance to see centuries of maritime history in a single building.
How to get there
The lighthouse is at the tip of the Hook Peninsula in southeast Ireland. A car is the most practical option, and the drive passes quiet villages and coastal views. Waterford and Wexford are the nearest larger towns.
Best time to visit
Late spring and summer offer longer days and calmer weather, although the headland can be breezy at any time. Winter storms can be dramatic to watch from a safe distance.
Good to know
Access to the tower interior has typically been by guided tour, so check the official visitor centre for current arrangements. The rocks around the point are uneven and slippery.
Memorable momentClimbing narrow stone stairs inside walls that have watched ships pass for hundreds of years.