Hartland Point Lighthouse, Devon, England

© Adam Burton/Alamy Stock Phot

Info. Hartland Point Lighthouse, Devon, England

All may look calm on the Devon coast in south-west England, but these waters can be dangerous. The strong currents here saw the Romans name Hartland Point the ‘promontory of Hercules’ and the rocky cliffs have sent many ships to their doom. From the coastal path, walkers can still spot the remains of a wrecked cargo ship from 1982. The lighthouse, which opened in 1874, stands 37 metres above sea level and its light can be seen up to 40 kilometres away. Sitting just out of frame behind it is Hartland Point, a 99-metre rocky outcrop. Sections of rock behind the lighthouse were broken off and allowed to fall to the beach to try to protect it from the waves. But they were repeatedly washed away, leaving the lighthouse teetering on the edge. A permanent sea wall was built in 1925.