Explore Scotland's first lighthouse (1787) built through a 16th-century castle, with guided tours revealing the engineering, history and courage of lighthouse keepers.

Located in Fraserburgh on Aberdeenshire's North East coast, the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses offers a uniquely immersive experience centred on Kinnaird Head Lighthouse – mainland Scotland's very first lighthouse constructed in 1787. The extraordinary feature of this site is that the lighthouse was built directly through the middle of a 16th-century castle, creating a remarkable architectural wonder that visitors can explore firsthand. The museum tells the compelling story of the Northern Lighthouse Board, the innovative engineers who designed and built Scotland's lighthouse network, and the courageous keepers who maintained these vital beacons. Families can enjoy 45-minute guided tours throughout the day (10am to 4pm, daily) led by fully trained guides who share their passion for the site's history, engineering sophistication and human stories. The museum showcases how these structures saved countless lives through technical brilliance and tireless dedication. The venue is autism-friendly and actively working towards gaining an Autism Awareness Award, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors. Educational programmes are available for school groups, with collections and history providing inspired contexts for various learning objectives. The site also features a tea room (seasonal) and an online shop selling guidebooks, souvenirs and limited edition items, making it an excellent destination for families seeking both entertainment and educational value.

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