The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse has resumed tours conducted by volunteers who will tell you the history of the lighthouse and other pertinent stuff as you enjoy the best views in the area of several of the Isles of Shoals, Portsmouth Naval Prison, four of the forts protecting the harbor in the old days, Whaleback Light and Great Island Common. The tours are conducted by members of the organization, and there are presentations at four stations—the gate, the base of the tower, the Watch room and the Lantern room and each presentation lasts five to seven minutes. There is a height requirement of 42″ to climb the tower (44 stairs), and children cannot be carried, for safety reasons. For those wanting to see the Lantern room and its fourth order Fresnel lens up close, you will climb a 7-rung ladder (flat shoes, non-sandal type strongly suggested).
Hours: Memorial Day Weekend through Columbus Day Weekend, tours are on Sundays, from 1pm-5pm. Additional tour days during the 2014 seaon are Saturdays 7/5, 8/2 and 9/13 from 10am-2pm, Thurs. 8/7 from 1pm-5pm and Monday, 10/13 from 1pm-5pm.
Admission: $4 for adults, $2 for children 12 years old and under.
Please note that the lighthouse is on an active U.S. Coast Guard station. It is imperative that everyone observe the posted signs and stay away from all Coast Guard buildings, boats, and other facilities.
New Castle Coast Guard Station
25 Wentworth Road
New Castle, NH
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