SnapsbyTK

This was a brief visit to Tywyn Du Lighthouse, also known as Penmon Lighthouse, on a September afternoon in Anglesey, North Wales. The weather was unsettled, with heavy rain showers moving through quickly, but coastal locations like this often benefit from these changing conditions.

I was fortunate with the timing of the tide, which sat at just the right height and distance to frame the lighthouse cleanly while still allowing some foreground interest. Between showers, the light softened briefly before closing in again, creating short windows to work in. It was a case of waiting, watching the sky, and being ready when the conditions aligned.

Tywyn Du is an exposed location, and even during a short visit it’s easy to see how the lighthouse stands quietly against the elements, while the weather and sea constantly change around it.

History of Tywyn Du (Penmon) Lighthouse

Tywyn Du Lighthouse was built in 1838 by Trinity House to improve navigation through the hazardous waters surrounding the Menai Strait. This stretch of coastline is known for strong tidal currents, submerged rocks, and historically poor visibility, which led to numerous shipwrecks.

The name Tywyn Du translates from Welsh as “Black Beach”, a reference to the dark rocks and shoreline nearby. Positioned near Penmon Point and facing Puffin Island, the lighthouse has long been an important navigational aid for vessels travelling along the Anglesey coast.

Originally manned and powered by oil lamps, Penmon Lighthouse has since been modernised and is now fully automated. Although no longer staffed, it remains an active lighthouse and a well-known landmark in North Wales.

Photography Equipment Used

Canon RP Camera

Canon RF 24–105mm Lens

Kase Filter Polariser

Kase Filter 3 Stop ND

Peak Design Tripod

Getting to Tywyn Du Lighthouse, Penmon

Tywyn Du Lighthouse is located on the north-east coast of Anglesey, approximately five miles from Beaumaris. Follow the B5109, which runs along the coastline, until you reach Llangoed, where signs direct you towards Penmon Lighthouse.

From St Seiriol’s Monastery, the road becomes a toll road, which is usually manned. The final stretch opens up to wide coastal views before reaching the lighthouse.

Postcode: LL58 8RR