Conserving South Foreland Lighthouse

Background

The lantern at the top of South Foreland Lighthouse has protected its lamp and rotating lens from the elements since 1872. Like many historic lighthouse lanterns, it is made up of specially shaped glass panels fitted within a cylindrical metal framework.

At South Foreland, the glass is particularly distinctive. The panes are either triangular or diamond-shaped, depending on their position within the lantern, and each one is curved to fit the structure. Formed from 15mm-thick glass, these complex panels are difficult to manufacture. Remarkably, much of the glass in the lantern today dates from the installation of the metal framework in 1872. The last significant replacement work took place after the lantern was damaged by shellfire during the Second World War.

Why the glass needs replacing

After more than 150 years of exposure to the harsh coastal environment, the lantern glass has become increasingly fragile. Corrosion in some of the metal frames has caused them to expand, placing pressure on the panes and leading to cracks.

These cracks indicate that parts of the glazing have reached the end of their useful life and can no longer provide the level of protection needed for the delicate mechanisms inside the lantern. Although the lighthouse holds a small stock of spare panes, these are also historic and have become similarly brittle over time.

Two damaged panes have already been replaced, but further work is needed to replace the remaining failed glass. Because every pane is individually made, replacements must be specially manufactured. We also need additional panes to create a stock for future repairs, helping to protect the lantern for years to come.

Andy Finn's lasting legacy

Progress on the project received a significant boost thanks to the generosity of Andy Finn (1959-2024), a long-standing National Trust volunteer.

Andy dedicated 23 years to supporting the National Trust, spending much of his time at South Foreland Lighthouse. He welcomed visitors, shared stories of lighthouse life, supported events and helped in the shop. Known for his kindness, warmth and sense of humour, Andy was a passionate advocate for both the lighthouse and the work of the National Trust.

When Andy passed away suddenly in May 2024, we were deeply moved to learn that he had included South Foreland Lighthouse in his will. Working closely with his family, we identified the lantern glass restoration as a fitting project to benefit from his gift.

Together with donations from other generous supporters, Andy's legacy will enable us to replace the remaining damaged glass panels and secure a supply of specially made replacements for the future. This important work would not otherwise have been possible.

Looking to the future

Conserving a historic structure in such an exposed coastal location is an ongoing challenge. However, the knowledge gained through recent conservation work, combined with the restoration of the lantern glass, will help ensure that South Foreland Lighthouse continues to stand proudly on the White Cliffs of Dover for generations to come.

We are incredibly grateful to Andy, his family and everyone who has supported this conservation project and helped secure the future of this much-loved historic landmark.

You can help

Conserving a structure in such an exposed position as South Foreland Lighthouse will always be challenging and ongoing. Our newly acquired knowledge of the building, combined with the recent conservation work, will mean that this historic icon can be properly maintained and will continue to grace the White Cliffs of Dover for many generations to come. If you are able to make a donation towards this work, we would be very grateful. You can give £5 by texting the word LIGHTHOUSE to 70525 or please see the donation panel below to give any other amount.