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When the lighthouses of Scotland were originally built sundials timed them. As the technology improved the sundials became more of a symbol of the lighthouses rather than necessary in the operation. When the Northern Lighthouse Board automated the lighthouses the sundials were removed from the top of the columns. The one shown in the picture is the only one still operating at a lighthouse and it happens to at Eshaness. The dial is a brass reproduction but it works perfectly and gives accurate time. The sundial is of great interest to the tourists who visit the area. The picture was taken one beautiful rainbow night in Shetland. Picture by Sharma Krauskopf

An exciting book about 31 of the best scottish lighthouses explained in insightful text and magnificent colour photographs is available here.

If you would like to know what it is like to buy a Scottish lighthouse then check out The Last Lighthouse.

If you are interested in a video about Scottish Lighthouses you can get a good one here.

You can find more articles in the archive under Lighthouse Beacons From Scotland.