Hook

Hook Lighthouse is truly one of a kind.

Built 800 years ago, the lighthouse continues to serve its original function and now boasts the accolade of the world’s oldest operational lighthouse.

Step back in time with a guided tour of this astonishing still-intact medieval lighthouse. Discover Hook’s fascinating history, and there’s plenty of it given that this site’s been home to a beacon since the 5th century.

Hear compelling stories from life on the coastal edge and find out more about the top-class technology at work keeping people safe at sea today. Then, step out onto the lighthouse’s four-storey high balcony to enjoy simply spectacular panoramas. Watch out for that refreshing sea spray though, it can reach the top of the lighthouse in stormy weather!

Back at ground level pop into the visitor centre and gift shop. And be sure to leave time to treat yourself with a coffee and homemade scone in the café before you journey on to explore the Norman castles, Cistercian abbeys, historical gardens and sandy beaches all around beautiful County Wexford.

A jewel in the Ireland’s Ancient East crown, guided tours of the lighthouse tower are on offer seven days a week, while bespoke and private tours – including sunrise and sunset options – are also available. The sunrise and sunset tours are lead by a local guide and culminate in the watch-room and balcony. There, visitors can savour Irish mead, prosecco, tea/coffee along with Ballyhack smokehouse smoked salmon on traditional brown bread and homemade canapés, all while watching the breathtaking vista as the sun rises or sets.

A quick history

• William Marshal, a Knights Templar, known as the Greatest Knight, built the lighthouse tower to protect and develop the shipping trade, which was so important in the 13th century.
• Monks looked after the lighthouse tower until 1641.
• Lightkeepers and their families lived at the lighthouse until 1977.
• The lighthouse was converted to electric operation in 1972 and automated in 1996.

Did you know?

• The lighthouse walls are up to four metres thick.
• Humpback and fin whales often visit the waters around Hook Peninsula for feeding during the winter months.
• The phrase ‘by hook or by crook’ is said to have originated here.
• Hook Lighthouse marks to entrance to Waterford harbour where the Barrow, Nore and Suir rivers meet. The lighthouse operates with Tuskar Rock and Mine Head lights to provide coverage on the South East Coast.
• It is one of 65 lighthouses operated by the Commissioners of Irish Lights around the coast of Ireland and continues to provide a vital role in maritime safety today.

Image Credits: © Stephen Emerson and © Hook Heritage