Point of Ayre

The Point of Ayre is the northern extremity of the island, a low spit of shingle where the land simply runs out into a fast tidal race, with a lighthouse of 1818 built by Robert Stevenson standing on it in red and white bands. A smaller light stands seaward of it, moved twice as the shingle has extended. Scotland is visible across the water on clear days. There is no shelter and the wind is constant.

What you actually see

• The 1818 lighthouse - the Stevenson tower in red and white bands.
• The shingle spit - the low bank of stones the island ends on.
• The tidal race - the fast water running past the point.
• The Scotland view - the Galloway coast visible across the water on clear days.

When to go

April to October is best for conditions. The point is exposed in any weather. Clear days are needed for the view across.

Honest expectations

There is nothing here but shingle, the lighthouse and the wind. The lighthouse is not open to visitors. Currents offshore are dangerous and swimming is out of the question.

Nearby

The Ayres National Nature Reserve is west, and Ramsey is south.