For The Safety of All

Lighthouses punctuate Scotland's coastline - a stoic presence on the edge of the landscape. Since the earliest of these hardy structures were raised, they have been a lifeline for seafarers at the mercy of the  treacherous weather and uncertain navigation. Today over 100 of Scotland's lighthouses are listed buildings.

The lighthouse is now one of many maritime resources which act 'for the safety of all'. But we are still drawn to the solitary life of the keeper, the beauty of the lens of the lamp and the calm reassurance of a flashing light on a distant shore.

Donald S Murray explores Scotland's lighthouses through history, storytelling and the voices of the lightkeepers. From ancient beacons to the work of the Stevensons and the Northern Lighthouse Board, and from wartime strife to automation and preservation, lighthouses stand as a testament to the nation's innate connection to the sea.

For The Safety of All is published in partnership between Historic Environment Scotland and the Northern Lighthouse Board and in conjunction with designation work to update listed building records for lighthouses and associated structures.