Brilliant Sky

There's a common saying in the UK: "Red sky at night, Shepherd's delight". Well, given how spectacular the sky was during this sunset, which very nearly didn't happen... I think we can also apply it to Photographers too!

Why did these photos nearly not happen? Well, the lighthouse is located in the North of England, in the county of Lancashire. This should offer a clue already. The day before I drove up from scenic, picturesque Surrey through multiple torrential storms. The day the photos were taken started off almost as bleak, grey and overcast. And, the very next day was business as usual weather-wise!

Luckily the weather did break in the mid-afternoon after my friend and I went for a hike around the town of Riverton. And so, having planned the photos in advance using Planit Pro, a "Photo Planner app", it was simply a case of racing against the light to the pre-planned location, where I knew the sun's setting path would intersect nicely with the lighthouse.

The lighthouse is fairly accessible by road, a short hop up the M6 motorway from Preston where I was staying with my friend, then about half an hour through some narrow country lanes and you'll arrive at the Lighthouse Cottage Car Park.

There's a small sign that said the car park gate is closed at 21:30, which was enough time to arrive, race along the coastal path to the perfect spot, snapping away as we did, enjoy the sunset in its entirety, and return to the car. Admittedly, after the posted gate closure. However, one assumes that the cottage keeper isn't super strict on closing the gate if they see a few straggler enjoying the long summer evenings.

Additional Information

Extra Tips

These photos where taken on: July 16, 2025 at around 21:00.

Arrive early, make use of the car park and go for a walk along the coastal path. The area is a known Birding spot, so why not enjoy a scenic walk before returning in time for the sunset.

The car Park entrance is on the corner of a rather sharp blind bend, there is a sign. But still, apply caution when turning in!

📍Google Maps Link Here📍

Be sure when shooting directly into the sun to remove any protexted filters you may have, as I didn't and you can see there is some slight artifacting from it.

Equipment used to take these photos:

Sony A7RV Body
Sony 50mm f1.2 GM Lens
Sony 14mm f1.8 GM Lens
Sony 100-400mm f4/5.6 GM Lens
Hoya UV-C Clear Lens Filter
Manfrotto Element MII Tripod
Planit Pro Photo Planner App (iOS)

Additional Information

Extra Tips

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