Bristol Ferry Lighthouse | Bristol RI

Information

Landmark: Bristol Ferry Lighthouse
City: Bristol RI
Country: USA Rhode Island
Continent: North America

Bristol Ferry Lighthouse, Bristol RI, USA Rhode Island, North America

The Bristol Ferry Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse situated on the eastern shore of Narragansett Bay in Bristol, Rhode Island. It served as a navigational aid for maritime traffic entering and exiting the bay.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse structure is a cylindrical brick tower, painted white, with a black lantern room at the apex. It stands approximately 40 feet tall. The associated keeper's house is a two-story wooden structure, painted white with a gray roof.

Location & Access Logistics

The lighthouse is located at 14 Ferry Lane, Bristol, RI 02809. It is approximately 3 miles south of Bristol's town center. Access is via Ferry Lane, a paved road. Parking is available on-site in a gravel lot. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is over 2 miles away.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Bristol Ferry Lighthouse was completed in 1869. It was built by the U.S. Lighthouse Board to replace an earlier, less effective light. Its original purpose was to guide vessels through the East Passage of Narragansett Bay.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the grounds surrounding the lighthouse and keeper's house. Photography of the structure and bay views is possible. The site is accessible for exploration during daylight hours.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available on-site. There is limited natural shade. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located at the lighthouse; nearest options are in Bristol.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions on the lighthouse. The months of May through October provide the most pleasant weather for outdoor exploration. Tidal conditions do not significantly impact access to the lighthouse grounds.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the lighthouse was automated in 1952, ending the need for a resident keeper. The light itself was deactivated in 1989.