It was also said to be the deepest because the optic was originally turned by a weight falling down a 45 metres (148 ft) deep shaft.

When first lit, the incandescent lamp was fuelled by oil gas (which was purchased from the Great Western Railway at Exeter and stored in large external tanks on site).

[3] Berry Head was classed as an unwatched light; it was managed by an attendant,[5] who brought it into service each evening.

A triple-cluster open-flame burner was installed,[7] along with an acetylene-powered drive to turn the lens,[8] and a Dalen sun valve (which automatically brought the light into operation when required).

In 2019 the optic and lamp were removed and replaced with a pair of self-contained LED lanterns (one serving as the main light, the other as a standby); the old characteristic was retained.