In 1838, Trinity House, then the official authority on lighthouses in Ireland, declined the request.

In 1853, the Trinity Board, under the supervision of William and James Burgess, brothers from Limerick, reversed the decision and authorized the construction of the lighthouse.

Construction began in 1855 and continued through 1860, using granite from the Mourne Mountains in County Down and limestone from Milverton.

The lighthouse tower is made of granite and is 32 metres (105 ft) high, including the gallery and lantern.

A keeper's residence and other buildings are located at the station, which is currently operated by the Commissioners of Irish Lights.