The Belle Tout Lighthouse
The Belle Tout Lighthouse at Beachy Head is a unique place to stay.
Built in 1832 and decommissioned in 1902, a tea-shop, a home, part-destroyed during the second world war and lovingly rebuilt in the 50's. Owned and filmed by the BBC, moved due to erosion - and now, beautifully restored and renovated.
With 360 degree views of the English Channel, beautiful landscape, countryside and the enigmatic Seven Sisters, Belle Tout is a remarkable place to stay.
With themed rooms such as 'The Captains Cabin', 'Old England' and 'Keepers Loft', the accommodation and facilities will ensure a comfortable and memorable break.
Relax in the Guest Lounge and on colder days warm your toes by the fire. Enjoy the sunset and the views of the Beachy Head Lighthouse and Seven Sisters from the breathtaking Lantern Room,
Very good news on VAT
Belle Tout Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast prices are normally quoted per room and are inclusive of VAT @ 20%
From 15 July 2020 to 12 January 2021 the UK Government has generously reduced the rate of VAT from 20% to 5% for hotels and restaurants etc. This concession is allowed to benefit the hotel OR the client. The owners of Belle Tout wish to pass on this discount in full to our esteemed guests.
Effectively, this means that any payment for accommodation, partially or in full, made during this period, will benefit accordingly, even if it relates to a stay to be taken beyond the 12 January 2021 deadline.
This will mean a temporary reduction in the cost of a 2 night stay at Belle Tout Lighthouse, of between £40 and £65. We are very happy to convey this good news to you, that hopefully will encourage more to enjoy the unique Belle Tout Lighthouse Experience.
With all good wishes,
David and Barbara Shaw.
N.B. Special precautions during Coronavirus. In the interests of the health and welfare of our guests and staff, we are, as a temporary measure, limiting the number of guests staying at any one time to 8 – 10 persons. (maximum capacity is 12). This will help to facilitate social distancing at all times in communal areas.
"Everything was perfect"
"A truly unique experience"
"Simply wonderful"
The Belle Tout Lighthouse was built in 1832 and came into operation on the 11th October 1834. It was decommissioned in 1902 due to constant cliff top fogs and the threat of erosion.
It then became a tea house, bought as a family home by Sir James Purves-Stewart in 1923 and almost completely destroyed during the Second World War. It was restored as a family home, owned by the BBC to film The Life and Loves of a She-Devil and then moved back from the eroding cliff in 1999.
David and Barbara Shaw bought Belle Tout in 2008 and spent two years renovating it until, finally, in 2010, the Belle Tout Lighthouse opened for guests as a unique bed and breakfast.
Belle Tout has a fascinating history, from our Neolithic ancestors and Roman farming, through to the brave acts of Parson Darby and "Mad Jack" Fuller's influence that led to the first temporary lighthouse being built.
Rob Wassell's book was the first book specifically about the Belle Tout Lighthouse and includes pictures and facts that many people will not have seen. It's an interesting and captivating read about one of Britain's most unique buildings.
The Story of the Belle Tout Lighthouse is available to buy at the lighthouse, at the Beachy Head Visitor Centre, at the National Trust shop in Birling Gap or on-line.
“A must for everyone”
“A fantastic place with spectacular views. Beautiful clean rooms. Shirley and Ian were the perfect hosts, complementary drinks early evening was a great touch. Breakfast was superb. This is an exceptional place, great walks and views. Thank you for 2 wonderful days.”
“A breakfast to die for”
“A little weekend treat for my wife turned into a relaxing chilled break at Belle Tout thanks to Ian, the manager. Views brill, breakfast awesome & rooms comfortable. What is not to like? Get there soon.”
"An unforgettable stay"
Expect fine food, great ales and a warm welcome in the idyllic country pub The Tiger Inn.
See more of Beachy Head with guided walks to explore the area and it's history.
Weddings and Events amid the splendour and beauty of Birling Manor and Bardolphs Hall.
Enjoy a mid-week getaway for less – stay at the Tiger Inn between Monday and Thursday and you get three nights for the price of two.
Find out more at www.beachyhead.org.uk
Birling Gap provides a point of entry for delightful walks. The beach below is ideal for seaside picnics with its rock pools and areas of pebbles and sand. It is a great example of a marine nature reserve. Find out more on the Birling Gap website.
There is a National Trust café and the shop sells locally sourced items, seaside goods and traditional favourites from fishing nets to fleeces, books to buckets and spades.
Find out more at the National Trust web site.
The Belle Tout Lighthouse truly is a unique place to stay and you can find out more about the lighthouse, its rooms and facilities by exploring our website.
You can check the room rates and then check availability.
You can find out more about the area with our information pages, such as how to get here and where to eat.
If you have any questions please call 01323 or contact us.