Photograph showing the outer wall of the quay creating the refuge harbour surmounted by the Watchhouse and its leading light. The gap to the left of the Watchhouse shows the former location of the Harbour Master's house (now demolished).
The small enclosing pier which created a harbour of refuge was built in 1816. The original lighthouse, which the present structure replaces, was built in 1817 and had a fixed bright light. The Watchhouse, built in 1853, was used by the hobblers (rowing boats and their crews) which were responsible for towing vessels in and out of harbour. The Harbourmaster's house which formerly stood adjacent to the Watch House to the east was demolished after being vanadlised.