Ballycurrin Lighthouse

Inland lighthouse on Lough Corrib

Built in 1772, Ballycurrin Lighthouse is situated on the eastern shore of Lough Corrib, at Ballycurrin Demesne, Headford, Co. Galway. This unusual lighthouse lies just inside County Mayo on the Galway/Mayo border and is said to be the only known inland lighthouse of its type in Europe.

It has a modest height of approx 22 feet and its upper section can be accessed via spiral metal steps attached to the exterior. It has a mill stone for its roof and the uppermost section of the lighthouse would have been used to burn timber to create the beacon.

Ballycurrin Lighthouse: What to expect

History of Ballycurrin Lighthouse

Records suggest it was built by a local landowner Sir Henry Lynch in 1772 who needed a marker to get his provisions off the Galway to Cong ferry to his home at Ballycurrin House, though some believe it was in fact built by his wife so that he could make his way home after visiting the pubs in Galway & Cong.

Ballycurrin Lighthouse Location Map

Ballycurrin Lighthouse FAQs

Where is Ballycurrin lighthouse?

Ballycurrin lighthouse is situated on the edge of Lough Corrib in County Galway. It is believed to be the only inshore lighthouse in Europe of its kind.

Who built Ballycurrin lighthouse?

The local landlord, Liam Lynch, had Ballycurrin lighthouse constructed in the late 1700s to facilitate the transportation of supplies to his neighboring Ballycurrin House Estate by steamer running from Galway to Cong.

How was the beacon of the lighthouse created?

The roof of the 22-foot-tall lighthouse is made of millstones onto which wood would have been burned to shine its firelight.

Who did Ballycurrin lighthouse help on Lough Corrib?

Ballycurrin lighthouse’s location on the edge of Lough Corrib served as a navigational aid for boats traveling on the lake, particularly those transporting supplies to Ballycurrin House & Estate.