An application to build the Lighthouse was made in March 1827 on behalf of traders in Carmarthen Bay.

It acts in conjunction with the Lundy North lighthouse to the south, and has a range of 13 nautical miles (24 km).

The light was intended to help coastal traffic trading limestone and coal to mid and north Wales but the light also helped long-distance and north American traffic identify the Bristol Channel and avoid confusion with the English Channel.

This forms a ‘U’-shape, with the Lighthouse at the centre of the south side, and enclosed gardens to the north.

Cardiff Central Library holds a wash drawing by Charles Norris showing the Lighthouse under construction.