The Thorngumbald Clough Lighthouses were established in July 1870. They were established initially on an experimental basis and designed to be movable. The lights could be realigned as the Humber’s channel shifted over time. As they were successful, they replaced nearby Paull Lighthouse, offering a more adaptable navigation aid.
The High Light, standing 50 feet tall, was built on a masonry foundation and constructed of wrought iron girders. Its open framework extended for about two-thirds of its height, above which sat an enclosed section containing a lantern and store room. Access to the top was gained by a spiral staircase within the open structure and a ladder inside the enclosed section.
The Low Light was a 32-foot iron-plated tower mounted on a trolley that ran on rails. This allowed it to be repositioned in line with the High Light, maintaining a transit line to guide ships safely through the channel from Hull to Paull.
Both towers were built by Thompson and Stather of Hull, who were also responsible for the Salt End lights. The foundations and the keeper’s cottage were constructed by Storry and Jagger, also of Hull.
The High Light was painted red and had an elevation of 43 feet, while the Low Light was painted white with an elevation of 26 feet. They were spaced 370 feet apart and each displayed a fixed white light powered by oil lamps with reflectors. The keeper’s cottage, painted red and located next to the Low Light, helped make the lower tower more visible.
By 1888, a survey revealed that the deepwater channel had shifted so significantly that the Low Light could no longer be moved far enough along its track to maintain alignment. A temporary solution was implemented using a light exhibited from a post northeast of the lighthouse. The Low Light tramway was then extended by 15 feet. On October 15, the tower was moved an additional 7 feet 3 inches to re-establish the proper transit line with the High Light.
Initially, a single keeper maintained both lights, but this was later expanded to two keepers.
Around 1926, the lights were converted to electricity and became unwatched. They were operated instead by a clockwork switch that required monthly winding by a visiting attendant. The lights were also changed to occulting lights, making them more noticeable by introducing timed eclipses. Both lights were synchronised to eclipse at the same moment.
Over time, the keeper’s cottage fell into disrepair and was eventually demolished.
Today, the Thorngumbald Clough Lighthouses are maintained by Associated British Ports. Both original 1870 towers are Grade II listed buildings, recognised for their historical significance.
In 2003, sea defences in the area were realigned, prompting discussions about relocating the towers. Ultimately, they remained in place on the promontory.The lighthouses can still be reached via a short walk from Paull Holme Strays, an intertidal nature reserve along the Humber estuary. A circular walk from here will take you past Paull Lighthouse.
