Immerse yourself in a fascinating history and enjoy breath-taking views on a tour of Southwold Lighthouse. Built in 1890 and still in operation, the lighthouse is a beautiful blend of form and function, providing an aid to navigation and standing proud on the Southwold skyline. Reaching the top means climbing 113 stairs and there’s no lift, but you’ll be more than rewarded for the effort. The views of the sea, sky, townscape and countryside are hard to beat, even on a stormy day!
The tour lasts an hour, after which you’ll receive a 10% discount voucher to use in our stores – maybe you’ll need some refreshment after all that climbing!
The Lighthouse Tour departs from the Adnams Tours Centre, located in The Swan Courtyard, on Market Place, Southwold IP18 6EG – accessed through the archway adjacent to The Swan entrance.
Solstice Sunrise Tour
Watch the sunrise from the top of Southwold Lighthouse. Enjoy breathtaking, panoramic coastal views. Take a unique behind-the-scenes landmark tour.
Date: Sunday, 21 June 2026.
Occasion: Summer Solstice (longest day).
Location: Southwold Lighthouse
Suitability for Children and what to expect.
Children are welcome on a Lighthouse Tour but must be accompanied by a responsible adult. We are keen for children to enjoy the experience, but they always remain the responsibility of parents and guardians. To undertake the tour, children must be:
- At least 7 years old
- A minimum of 1.1 metres in height
- A maximum of two children per responsible adult.
A Lighthouse Tour is a strenuous experience lasting just under an hour. Children must be physically capable of ascending and descending the staircases by themselves, unaided.
Under no circumstances can children or babies be carried up and down the staircases. This includes the use of baby carriers, papooses, etc. All instructions given by the Tour Guide must be adhered to and we reserve the right to stop a tour or ask guests to leave a tour, given the risks associated with the tour.
The Tour includes a Health & Safety Briefing, a talk on the history of Trinity House and Southwold Lighthouse, a climb of 113 steps including a steep ladder at the top, and time to enjoy the view.
Important Information, please share with your group:
- This experience is suitable for those at least 1.1 metres in height and physically capable of ascending and descending the staircase by themselves, unaided.
- Unfortunately, the lighthouse experience is not suitable for those with restricted mobility.
- Anyone suffering from vertigo, heart, or respiratory conditions is advised not to undertake the tour.
- Guests agree to wear sensible shoes. They must wear fully enclosed flat-soled footwear (no stilettoes, high heels, flip flops, sandals, or bare feet).
- Guests will wear the hi-vis vest we supply; remain within the designated walkways and under the direct supervision of their Tour Guide for the duration of the visit.
- There is a zero-alcohol policy for guests participating in the Lighthouse Tour. Those participating in a Brewery or Distillery Tour on the same day as a Lighthouse Tour should ensure the Lighthouse Tour is booked before the Brewery/Distillery Tour.
- Adnams Tours are subject to a minimum attendance policy. Should this affect your booking, we will contact you directly and we will endeavour to move you to an alternative and viable tour where possible.
- Dogs are not allowed in the lighthouse.
Private Lighthouse & Sunrise Tours:
Can’t see enough spaces online for your group? Don’t worry, we can offer bespoke Lighthouse Tours, including Sunrise Tours that can accommodate up to 12 participants. If you’re looking for a unique experience in Southwold to celebrate a special occasion or to entertain clients and guests, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. Contact the team, 01502 727225 or tours@adnams.co.uk for more details.
Educational Lighthouse Tours
Southwold Lighthouse has been a local landmark since 1887. Still operational and with a long maritime history, it makes an interesting destination for educational trips. If you are with a school or youth organisation and would like to arrange a visit, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. We can offer private educational trips during the week, for £8 per child, and concessions for teachers and leaders. Contact the team, 01502 727225 or tours@adnams.co.uk for more details.
Please click here to view our Lighthouse Tours Terms and Conditions.
