ABOUT US
The Old Higher
Lighthouse
The Isle of Portland
Built in the 18th century the lighthouse was used for its original purpose until 1906. Past owners include Dr Marie Stopes, the pioneer of birth control, who entertained a number of famous people during her time there, including Thomas Hardy and Margo Fontayne.
The lighthouse actually has four cottages within its grounds and it is Branscombe Lodge Cottage and Stopes Cottage, both beautifully restored, which are available for holiday lets. At the time Fran & Les purchased the property in 1981 it had lain derelict for a number of years but it has now been lovingly restored without losing its unique character.
Both cottages enjoy free parking, free wifi, seasonal access to the outdoor heated swimming pool, jacuzzi and large ornamental gardens.
The Isle of Portland is part of the 95-mile stretch of Dorset's coastline known as The Jurassic Coast, which was awarded an UNESCO World Heritage Site status because of its outstanding geology.
The Island is joined to the mainland by a causeway and the famous Chesil Bank, an 18-mile stretch of shingle running from Portland to West Bay.
Best explored on foot, the island is a magnet for bird watchers, especially at migration times. Many rare species are seen and recorded at The Old Lower Lighthouse, which is now a Bird Observatory and Field Centre where visitors are welcome to call in.