Ramsgate Lighthouse

Ramsgate Lighthouse is located on the west pier of the harbour.

Ramsgate’s development as a harbour began in the 18th century, driven by the increasing need for safe harbours for ships navigating the English Channel. Construction of the harbour commenced in 1749, but it wasn’t until 1792 that Ramsgate began to take shape as the impressive port we see today.

The east and West stone piers, forming the outer harbour, were built in 1779. John Smeaton drew up plans in 1783 for a lighthouse on the west pier but died in 1792 before the project was completed. Smeaton had been responsible for building the Eddystone Lighthouse that now stands on Plymouth Hoe. Samuel Wyatt eventually built the first Ramsgate Lighthouse in 1795.

In 1842, the 34-foot-high Cornish granite tower was replaced with a 38-foot-high stone lighthouse set back from the pier end. This now operates as a rear range light, displaying a fixed red light when less than 10 feet of water is in the harbour. At other times, a green light is shown.

The front range light, which displays an occulting white light, is mounted on a red and white pole at the end of the East pier.

Extending from the harbour are two 30ft towers with solar-powered lights.

The north breakwater has a green and white banded tower, and the south breakwater has a red and white banded tower.

Carved into the tower is the Latin phrase PERFUGIUM MISERIS, which means refuge for those in need.

Construction of the harbour, including the pier and associated buildings, was a massive undertaking. After nearly a century of development, the harbour was completed in 1850. It provided a haven for vessels during the Napoleonic Wars and supported trade and fishing in the region.

Ramsgate Harbour boasts a unique status as the only Royal Harbour in the United Kingdom. In 1821, King George IV granted royal status for the hospitality shown when sailing from Ramsgate to Hanover.