Branscombe Cottage

Branscombe Lodge is a cottage in the grounds of the lighthouse. It is set in quiet unspoiled rural countryside and accessed by a private road. Originally it was the paraffin store for the lighthouse but has been converted into an 'upside down' house. The sitting room is upstairs with magnificent views of sea and coast on all four sides. It is spacious and comfortably furnished. All other rooms are down stairs and all have sea views. The double bedroom enjoys morning sun and the twin room evening sun. The kitchen and bathroom both face south. The kitchen is fully equipped with all necessities of home and the bathroom has bath with shower over, WC and basin. The whole cottage is kept up to date and very clean. Guests have access to the lighthouse tower/ observatory where they can enjoy sitting and watching the sky, sea, birds, and anything that passes, including dolphins! To give added interest and see more closely there is a large gun sight binocular in the observatory. Fran and Les (your hosts) live on site and are always available to help and give advice.

The lighthouse has a long history. The first on this site was in 1716 and was a coal-fired beacon. The first one stone built was in 1769 and later rebuilt in 1869 and worked in conjunction with the Lower lighthouse, which is now a bird observatory. It had a 16 wick burner and was the first lighthouse anywhere in the world to use Argon lamps and a true reflector. When it was new King George III was anxious to see 'This new lighthouse' and came for a visit. It became disused and went into private ownership in 1906 when the new red and white one was built. After which it had various owners including Dr Marie Stopes and it was during that time it was visited by some famous people including H.G.Wells, Thomas Hardy, G.B.Shaw and ballerina Margot Fontaine who later became a Dame.

Portland Bill

Portland Bill is the most famous part of Portland and has three lighthouses. One is now a holiday cottage, one is the bird observatory and one is actually a lighthouse. The lighthouse is open to the public on certain days and is well worth a look round. The bird observatory is positioned well as Portland, and Portland Bill especially is a haven for birds. Other attractions include Pulpit Rock, the blow hole, passing whales and dolphins and so much more - just make time for a visit.

Although many walkers make Portland Bill their end destination it actually works very well as a starting point. Head north-east along the coast to the beach at Church Ope and then then up past Pensylvania Castle to Portland Museum. Or head north-west, again along the coast, to Westcliff and stunning views across Lyme Bay as you walk along the cliff tops.

Facilities

Although there are few houses at the Bill there is an excellent choice for food. The Lobster Pot is right next to the lighthouse and is open all day serving breakfasts, lunch, afternoon teas and dinners. They also have a kiosk serving food and ice creams and a shop. The large grassy area also makes it an excellent place for picnics.