Inner Hebrides

Place of the lighthouse

Rubha nan Gall lighthouse is located north of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. The name means "Stranger's Point" in Scottish Gaelic. Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse marks the southern side of the northwestern entrance to the Sound of Mull. It is located a short walk away from Tobermory.

Building of the Lighthouse

The lighthouse was designed by David and Thomas Stevenson and first lit on 10th November 1857. It came into operation on the same date as Isle Ornsay, Rona and Ushenish Lighthouses.

A new condensing apparatus was designed by Thomas Stevenson. The optic concentrated light in the approaching directions. Across the Sound, where the distance was not so great, the light was less intense.

Warning systems (Light)

Operational status

The lighthouse was automated in 1960 and the nearby former keepers' cottages are privately owned. The light is monitored by Northern Lighthouse Boards headquarters in Edinburgh.

Information about the lighthouse specific

In 1894, the Oxcars Lighthouse in the Firth of Forth was automated using a new gas system. As a result, the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses looked to reduce the number of keepers at some lighthouses. The process of automation began in 1897, and eventually Rubha nan Gall became one of those lights retaining only one keeper.

In 1943 Keeper John Clark was transferred to Rubha nan Gall with his wife. Clark was a senior keeper of almost 30 years’ service. However, health problems were the reason for the move to the apparently “easier” light at Rubha nan Gall. Contact with the outside world was via the 25-minute coastal pathway to Tobermory. Clark’s youngest daughter Jean joined her parents at the lighthouse whilst her husband was serving with the Army. Two daughters were born at the remote cottages – the doctor and midwife having to attend via that same coastal pathway.

Additional information

In August 2013, the former keeper's cottage, together with 80 acres (32 ha) of land and 1 mile (1.6 km) of shore front, was put up for sale at £225,000. Access is by sea or a 1.5 miles (2.4 km) muddy footpath from Tobermory along the steep wooded coastline. The cottage has no mains electricity, water or sewer connections; instead a private spring supplies water, and solid fuel or gas provide heat and light.

Scotland is renowned for its remote corners, and many lighthouses are very isolated. Rubha nan Gall is one such hideaway. It should be noted that although having been in operation for over 160 years, there is no road access to the lighthouse.

The footpath to the lighthouse can be muddy and narrow in places, so suitable footwear is advised. Power is supplied off-grid, mainly via solar power.