Gibbs Hill Lighthouse

If you didn’t manage to get a window seat on the plane, or simply got too inebriated on complimentary beverages, you can still get a bird’s eye view of Bermuda from the top of the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. Unfortunately you’re going to have to climb 185 steps for the privilege.

Constructed in 1844 the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is the oldest cast iron lighthouse in the world. The hill on which the lighthouse stands is 245 feet high while the lighthouse itself measures 117 feet. A 1,000 watt bulb sits inside a lens revolving in a trough of 1,200 pounds of mercury. The light beam it emits can be seen by ships 40 miles away and from a distance of 120 miles by a plane flying at 10,000 feet.

Most of Bermuda, including South Shore Park, Hamilton, the Fairmont Southampton hotel and the Great Sound, can be seen from the top of the lighthouse. Between late February and May you may also spot whales migrating to their summer feeding grounds. So don’t forget that camera!!! For a closer look try Blue Water Divers & Watersports or Fantasea Bermuda’s whale watching trips.

While you’re there, check out the panorama from Queen’s View. It’s named after Queen Elizabeth II who paused here in 1953 to wonder at the scenery. A commemorative plaque in the grounds marks the spot.

After (or before) climbing all those steps you may need to visit the Lighthouse Tea Room for some refreshments.

Reader Reviews and Additional Information

Nikki :

My boyfriend and I drove our mopeds to this lighthouse all the way from the Hamilton port. We took a cruise to Bermuda in mid September 07. It was dark at the time we went to the lighthouse, which was best because you could see how far out the light from the lighthouse can go. We also made a stop at the Queens View, and soaked in how beautiful Bermuda truly was. It was a little spooky though because there was almost no street lighting where this lighthouse is, and it was exciting not knowing who/what could be lurking around each turn. I can't wait to go back, it truly was a lifetime experience.

Nancy :

I went up in the lighthouse back in 1976 when I was 18 years old and on spring break, and thought it was one of the most beautiful views I'd ever seen in my life at the time. Now nearing age 50, I still think it (and all of Bermuda) is the most beautiful scenery in the world. I went back to Bermuda a few times after that initial visit, and will forever love that island. I only wish I could qualify to live there permanently. The residents are blessed to have such a lovely paradise to call home.

Editor :

Ben, you probably would go blind. But it's not open at night.

Ben :

I think Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is one of the best places to get a good view of the island. The only bad thing is that if it is at night and you turn around, you have a good chance of going blind, if you know what I mean!