Tom Parsons

Ramsgate Royal harbour lighthouse. This image was taken as part of my street and architecture project from my travels at home and abroad.

The Royal Harbour Lighthouse in Ramsgate is an iconic landmark that has guided seafarers for over two centuries. Situated in the historic town of Ramsgate in Kent, England, this lighthouse is an important part of the town's maritime heritage and is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the area.

The lighthouse was built in 1821 by John Shaw, a renowned engineer of his time, and stands at a height of 48 meters. The lighthouse is made of brick and has a unique design with eight sides, making it one of the most distinctive lighthouses in the country. The lighthouse was originally equipped with Argand lamps and reflectors, but in 1902, it was converted to electricity, and the lantern was replaced with a powerful rotating lens.

The Royal Harbour of Ramsgate, where the lighthouse is located, is a picturesque harbor that dates back to the 18th century. The harbor was originally built as a refuge for ships in bad weather and was later developed as a commercial port. Today, the harbor is primarily used for leisure, with a marina that can accommodate over 800 boats, making it one of the largest marinas in the UK. The harbor is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Aside from its historical significance, the Royal Harbour Lighthouse has also played an important role in maritime safety. The lighthouse's powerful light can be seen from over 26 miles away, guiding ships safely through the English Channel and into the harbor. The lighthouse is also equipped with foghorns and other warning devices, ensuring that ships can navigate safely even in poor visibility.

Over the years, the Royal Harbour Lighthouse has undergone several renovations and restorations to ensure that it remains in good condition. In 2018, the lighthouse underwent a major restoration, with its distinctive black and white bands repainted to their original colors, and the lantern room refurbished.

Overall, the Royal Harbour Lighthouse and the harbor of Ramsgate are important historical and cultural landmarks in the UK. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of maritime culture, or just looking for a scenic destination to visit, the Royal Harbour Lighthouse and the harbor of Ramsgate are well worth a visit.  

This print is available as an A3 fine art archival quality Gyclee print. Printed on an A2 sized 320 gsm photo rag pearl sheet, allowing for a white border. Framed with a  matt black thin wooden frame, with a white spacer and mounted to Kappa board, with UV glass.

For larger print sizes please get in touch.

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