Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
Ascend Bermuda's historic cast-iron lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic island views. A rewarding climb with affordable souvenirs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour views
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Bermuda's historic cast-iron lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic island views. A rewarding climb with affordable souvenirs.
"Great views from the grounds and climbing to the top. Gift shop is cute and has plenty of souvenirs."
🚶♀️ Bus Route Advice
Take bus #7 for a shorter walk, or #8 for a scenic hike. Both offer access to the lighthouse.
💰 Affordable Souvenirs
Gift shop has great prices, perfect for finding mementos for loved ones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 185-Step Ascent
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
Conquer the spiral staircase for breathtaking 360-degree views of Bermuda's South Shore and Great Sound.
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Panoramic Island Vistas
Top of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
Gaze out over the entire island, spotting reefs and distant landmarks from the highest point.
Historic Cast-Iron Structure
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
Admire the world's oldest functioning cast-iron lighthouse, a marvel of 19th-century engineering.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb Smart, See More
Budget-Friendly Souvenirs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Bus Route Advice
Take bus #7 for a shorter walk, or #8 for a scenic hike. Both offer access to the lighthouse.
💰 Affordable Souvenirs
Gift shop has great prices, perfect for finding mementos for loved ones.
💧 Refreshing Ginger Beer
Don't miss trying the local ginger beer for a sweet and refreshing treat.
📸 Window Views
Enjoy island photos through the windows; exterior balcony access may be limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Bus Route Advice
Take bus #7 for a shorter walk, or #8 for a scenic hike. Both offer access to the lighthouse.
💰 Affordable Souvenirs
Gift shop has great prices, perfect for finding mementos for loved ones.
💧 Refreshing Ginger Beer
Don't miss trying the local ginger beer for a sweet and refreshing treat.
📸 Window Views
Enjoy island photos through the windows; exterior balcony access may be limited.
🧺 Picnic Spots
Plenty of benches available for relaxing or enjoying a picnic with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gibbs Hill Lighthouse for its stunning panoramic views and affordable admission. The gift shop is a highlight for budget-conscious travelers seeking reasonably priced souvenirs. While the climb is rewarding, some note that exterior balcony access may be limited, and the steps can be challenging for some.
"Its certainly an adventure getting there on bus route #8 if you're not a hiker take bus route #7. Other than that it is beautiful, serene and tranquil. I took my toddler, carried him on my back to the top of the light house. We were both nervous but adamant. After we visited the cute shop to reward ourselves with a token. The gentlemen who served us and gave us our tickets was super polite. What I like about the visit, is that there are many benches for you to sit-off relax or even have a picnic. You can take your time there and make a special moment even after you've climbed the lighthouse ✨️. They take card!!!"
Sache Bascome
"Great views from the grounds and climbing to the top. Gift shop is cute and has plenty of souvenirs. 8 flights total, but the balcony was closed. If you have time go back for sunset or sunrise!"
Sarah G
"Reasonably cheap local attraction. The souvenirs in the gift shop are some of the lowest priced on the whole island. We took the #8 bus to the stop closest to Tribe Rd 2 and hiked up that road, which isn't really a road, there's a staircase and then a short wooded trail. You'll cross the railway trail and eventually pop out right at the Queen's view and the lighthouse. You could also take the #7 bus and get off near the Henry VIII restaurant and walk up from there. Walkable from The Reefs. Wasn't too hard to climb it, there are informational displays on every landing so you can stop and rest and read a little if needed. The steps are narrow. They won't let you go out on the exterior landing anymore. At least not as of summer 2025."
Daniel Adams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Gibbs Hill Lighthouse via bus routes #7 or #8. Bus #7 stops closer to the Henry VIII restaurant, requiring a walk up from there. Bus #8 stops closer to Tribe Road 2, involving a hike with a staircase and trail. Consider a taxi if you prefer not to hike.
Yes, it's walkable from hotels like The Reefs. The hike up can be steep but rewarding.
If you're not keen on hiking, taking bus route #7 and walking from near the Henry VIII restaurant is generally considered an easier approach than the route #8 hike.
While there might be limited parking options, public transport and walking are the most recommended ways to access the lighthouse to avoid potential parking hassles.
Information on parking fees is not widely available, but public transport is heavily promoted, suggesting it's the preferred method of arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to climb Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is approximately $2.50 USD. This fee grants you access to ascend the 185 steps to the top.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire upon arrival for the most current times.
Tickets can typically be purchased on-site at the lighthouse. Advance booking is usually not required for individual visitors.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the admission price is already very reasonable, making it an affordable attraction for most visitors.
Yes, the grounds around the lighthouse offer beautiful views and are accessible. There are also benches for relaxation and picnics.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There are 185 steps to reach the top of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse.
From the top, you'll get stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the entire island of Bermuda, including the South Shore, Great Sound, and potentially the City of Hamilton and Royal Naval Dockyard.
As of recent visits, the exterior balcony may be closed, and visitors can view the scenery through the windows.
Yes, there are informational displays on each landing that serve as resting spots where you can also learn about the lighthouse's history.
It is possible to take a toddler, but you may need to carry them, especially for the climb. The grounds offer space for them to explore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full restaurant on-site, there is a cute gift shop that also sells souvenirs and refreshments. Some visitors have enjoyed local ginger beer from the shop.
Absolutely! There are many benches around the lighthouse grounds perfect for relaxing or enjoying a picnic with a view.
For a full meal, visitors have enjoyed places like Boundary Sports Bar for lunch.
No, there is no cafe or restaurant inside the lighthouse itself. The primary amenities are the gift shop and the viewing platform.
The ginger beer is a popular local beverage recommended for its sweet and refreshing taste.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top are spectacular for photography. The lighthouse itself, especially its cast-iron structure, is also a great subject.
Yes, you can take photos through the windows from the top viewing area. The views encompass the entire island.
Photographing the spiral staircase is possible, but it can be narrow and may require careful framing to capture its entirety.
Sunset is highly recommended for photography due to the beautiful golden hour light. Early mornings can also offer good light with fewer people.
No specific restrictions on photography have been widely reported, but be mindful of other visitors and the historical nature of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited to the gift shop. The bus routes offer an economical way to get there, which is a plus for family budgets.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the public bus system (#7 or #8) to reach the lighthouse, which is significantly cheaper than taxis.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1The lighthouse itself, with its historic cast-iron structure, is a compelling subject.
Experiment with angles to photograph the intricate details of the architecture and the spiral staircase within. While exterior balcony access might be limited, the views through the windows still offer excellent framing for your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
If you prefer not to hike, consider taking a taxi directly to the lighthouse. For those staying at nearby accommodations like The Reefs, a walk is also feasible, though it involves an ascent.
Pro-tip: If you're not a seasoned hiker, opting for bus route #7 and walking from the Henry VIII restaurant area is often considered the more manageable option compared to the longer hike associated with bus route #8.
The Climb and the Views
+1 As you ascend, you'll find informational displays on each landing, providing historical context about the lighthouse and its significance. These stops also offer opportunities to rest and catch your breath. Upon reaching the summit, you're greeted with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Bermuda.
It's a prime spot for photography, offering unparalleled vistas of the island's turquoise waters and lush greenery. It's worth noting that while the views are spectacular, access to the exterior balcony may be restricted, with visitors viewing the scenery through windows.
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: A Budget-Friendly Gem
Beyond the climb, the gift shop at the lighthouse is a notable feature for budget-conscious shoppers. It's frequently mentioned as having some of the lowest souvenir prices on the entire island.
Furthermore, the grounds themselves offer a free and beautiful experience. With numerous benches scattered around, visitors can relax, enjoy the scenery, and even have a picnic without any additional cost.
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