Complete Guide to Fisherman’s Wall Lights UK
Whether you’re lighting a coastal cottage, country home, or adding nautical character to your garden, this complete guide covers everything you need to know about fisherman’s wall lights in the UK – from choosing the right size to safe installation and maintenance.
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Hand-spun aluminium | IP44 rated | 5 colours | Extra Discounts on 2+ lights
Last updated: January 2025
- What Are Fisherman's Wall Lights?
- Where to Buy Fisherman's Wall Lights in the UK
- Choosing the Right Size & Style
- How to Install Fisherman's Wall Lights Safely
- Do our Fisherman's Outdoor Lights have sensors?
- Corner Mounted Your Outdoor Light
- Best LED Bulbs for Fisherman's Lights
- Customer Reviews & Real Installations
- Waterproof Ratings Explained (IP44)
- Coastal & Cottage Style Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ready to Choose Your Fisherman's Wall Lights?
What Are Fisherman’s Wall Lights?
Fisherman’s wall lights are distinctive outdoor lighting fixtures that originated in Britain’s fishing villages and harbours during the early 20th century. Originally designed to withstand harsh coastal weather while providing practical illumination for working docks and boat sheds, these robust lights have become a popular choice for homeowners seeking authentic nautical character.
The name “fisherman’s light” comes from their maritime heritage, though today they’re equally at home on country cottages, barn conversions, and suburban homes where homeowners want to add rustic, coastal, or industrial character.
Traditional fisherman’s wall lights feature several characteristic elements:
- Hand-spun aluminium construction – created using traditional metalworking techniques perfected over decades
- Glass dome shade – protects the bulb while diffusing light
- Nickel securing nuts – the distinctive bolts that give these lights their authentic industrial appearance
- Powder-coated finish – provides lasting durability in outdoor conditions
- IP44 weather rating – suitable for exposed outdoor locations including coastal areas
Modern UK manufacturers like J D Burford continue to hand-craft these lights using the same traditional techniques, ensuring each piece maintains the quality and character of the originals.
Where to Buy Fisherman’s Wall Lights in the UK
When shopping for fisherman’s wall lights in the UK, you’ll encounter two distinct markets: imported mass-produced versions and traditional UK-made lights. Understanding the difference helps you make an informed choice for your home.
UK Made vs Imported: What’s the Difference?
UK Made Fisherman’s Lights:
- Hand-spun from aluminium using traditional metalworking methods
- Powder-coated finish (not painted) for superior outdoor durability
- Individually handcrafted – not massed produced.
- Typically £115 – £145 per light depending on size and finish
- Made by established manufacturers with decades of experience
- Thicker gauge metal for lasting quality
- Better weather resistance, especially in coastal conditions
Imported Alternatives:
- Mass-produced using stamped or pressed metal
- Often painted rather than powder-coated (less durable finish)
- Typically £35-£100+
- Variable quality depending on source
- May require more frequent maintenance or replacement
Why Buy UK Made?
Quality: Traditional hand-spinning creates seamless, stronger fittings compared to stamped metal alternatives.
Durability: Powder coating penetrates the metal surface, creating a bond that won’t chip or peel like paint.
Authenticity: UK manufacturers maintain the original design specifications and craftsmanship methods.
Support: Direct customer service from the manufacturer, replacement parts availability, and expert advice.
What to Expect Price-Wise
For authentic UK-made fisherman’s wall lights, expect to invest:
- Standard size (26cm): £115 – £125
- Large size (32cm): £130 – £145
- Multi-buy savings: Extra discounts when purchasing 2 or more lights.
While UK-made lights cost more initially, the investment pays off through longevity, especially in challenging outdoor environments. A well-made fisherman’s light can last 20+ years with minimal maintenance, whereas cheaper alternatives may need replacing within 3-5 years. Read our articles on How they are made
Our UK Made Collection
We stock a complete range of hand-crafted fisherman’s wall lights made in South Wales by J D Burford, continuing over 60 years of metalworking expertise. All our lights are:
- Hand-spun from aluminium
- Powder-coated in a choice of 5 colours
- IP44 rated for outdoor use
- Supplied with glass dome and authentic nickel securing nuts
- Available in standard and large sizes
- Covered by manufacturer’s and our guarantee Manufacture 1 year – we add 4 years = 5 year warranty against faulty workmanship.
Shop Our Fisherman’s Wall Lights
Hand-crafted in the UK since the 1950s. From £115 with multi-buy savings.
Choosing the Right Size & Style
Fisherman’s wall lights come in two main sizes, and choosing the right one depends on where you’re installing them and the visual impact you want to create.
There is also a simplified version – The Harbour Light – similar in size to the Large Wall Light (32cm dia), it can also be seen with the fisherman’s wall lights.
Size Guide: Standard vs Large
Standard Size (26cm diameter)
Dimensions: 26cm diameter (over shade), 40cm high, 40cm overhang from wall
Best for:
- Smaller porches and doorways
- Cottage-scale properties
- Regular garden walls (under 2.5m high)
- Paired installations flanking doors or windows
- Intimate outdoor spaces like courtyard gardens
Bulb recommendation: E27 LED bulb, 6-9 watts (equivalent to 40-60w traditional)
Typical price: £125 or less
Large Size (32cm diameter)
Dimensions: 32cm diameter (over shade), 48cm high, 42cm overhang from wall
Best for:
- Larger properties and barn conversions
- High walls (over 2.5m)
- Gate posts and entrance pillars
- Commercial properties (farm shops, holiday cottages)
- Making a statement on substantial buildings
Bulb recommendation: E27 LED bulb, 9 watts (equivalent to 60-70w traditional)
Typical price: £130-£145
Quick Size Selection Guide
| Your Situation | Recommended Size |
|---|---|
| Traditional cottage or bungalow | Standard (26cm) |
| Barn conversion or large country house | Large (32cm) |
| Flanking a standard front door | Standard (26cm) |
| Single light on high wall or gable end | Large (32cm) |
| Garden walls under 2 metres | Standard (26cm) |
| Entrance gate posts | Large (32cm) |
Colour & Finish Options
Authentic fisherman’s wall lights are available in several powder-coated finishes, each suited to different architectural styles:
Satin Matt Black
Character: Contemporary, dramatic, versatile
Best for: Modern homes, creating contrast against light-coloured walls, urban gardens
Maintenance: Shows less weathering than lighter colours
Slate Grey
Character: Modern yet subtle, softer than black
Best for: Contemporary coastal homes, properties with grey or stone exteriors
Maintenance: Excellent for coastal areas, hides salt spray marks well
Traditional Cream
Character: Classic, warm, cottage-style
Best for: Period properties, country cottages, traditional homes
Maintenance: May show weathering more than darker colours
Sea Spray (Pale Blue)
Character: Distinctive, coastal, vintage-inspired
Best for: Coastal properties, beach houses, creating a seaside aesthetic
Maintenance: Adds colour interest while remaining weather-resistant
Chalk White
Character: Clean, fresh, contemporary
Best for: White or light-coloured properties, Scandinavian-style homes
Maintenance: More visible weathering in exposed locations
Matching with Pendant Lights
Many homeowners create a coordinated look by matching wall lights with fisherman’s pendant ceiling lights for porches, boot rooms, or covered outdoor areas. The same sizes and colours are available in pendant versions, making it easy to maintain consistency throughout your lighting scheme.
💡 Expert Tip: Scaling for Your Property
When in doubt, go slightly larger rather than smaller. A common mistake is choosing lights that are too small for the building scale. As a rule of thumb:
- If your property is single storey, standard size works well
- If your property is two storey or has high walls, large size provides better proportion
- For barn conversions or properties with very high walls (3m+), consider large size even for multiple installations
How to Install Fisherman’s Wall Lights Safely
⚠️ Important Safety Notice
Electrical installation of outdoor lights should be carried out by a qualified electrician. Outdoor electrical work involves specific regulations and safety requirements. Attempting DIY installation can be dangerous and may invalidate your home insurance. This guide is for understanding the process, not for self-installation.
What Your Electrician Will Need to Know
When booking an electrician to install fisherman’s wall lights, provide them with this information:
- Light specifications: IP44 rated, E27 bulb fitting, requires connection to mains electricity
- Installation location: External wall, specify if exposed to weather or under cover
- Wall type: Brick, stone, rendered, timber frame (affects mounting method)
- Existing wiring: Whether extending from existing outdoor circuit or running new cable
- Quantity: Number of lights and whether they’ll be on same circuit/switch
The Installation Process (What to Expect)
1. Planning & Circuit Check
Your electrician will:
- Assess the proposed location
- Check existing outdoor circuit capacity
- Determine cable routing through walls
- Confirm whether new circuit protection is needed
- Check compliance with current wiring regulations (BS 7671)
2. Cable Installation
Outdoor lighting requires specific cable types:
- Armoured cable (SWA) for buried or exposed outdoor runs
- RCD (Residual Current Device) protection – mandatory for outdoor circuits
- Appropriate IP-rated junction boxes if required
- Weatherproof cable entry into the light fitting
3. Mounting the Light
Each fisherman’s wall light comes with:
- Backplate (11cm diameter) for wall mounting
- Mounting template or measurements
- Cable entry point through backplate
Note: Mounting screws and wall plugs are NOT supplied as requirements vary depending on wall construction. Your electrician will select appropriate fixings for your wall type (brick requires different fixings than stone or timber).
4. Wiring & Testing
The electrician will:
- Connect live, neutral, and earth wiring correctly
- Secure all connections within weatherproof termination
- Test circuit continuity and earth bonding
- Verify RCD protection operates correctly
- Issue Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate if required
Installation Considerations
Height & Positioning
- Flanking doors: Typically 1.8-2m high, centred on door sides
- Porch lighting: 2-2.2m for adequate headroom clearance
- Wall features: Position to highlight architectural elements
- Path lighting: 1.5-1.8m for good ground illumination
- Gate posts: Near top of post for maximum visibility
Weather Exposure
While fisherman’s lights are IP44 rated (suitable for outdoor use), positioning affects longevity:
- Ideal: Under eaves, porch covers, or other partial shelter
- Acceptable: Fully exposed walls if using darker colours (black, slate grey)
- Consider: South-facing walls receive most UV exposure – may affect lighter colours over time
- Coastal locations: All colours perform well, but slate grey shows salt spray least
Switch Control Options
Discuss with your electrician:
- Internal switch: Most common, controlled from inside property
- Dusk-to-dawn sensor: Automatic operation based on light levels
- PIR motion sensor: Can be added separately (particularly useful for security)
- Smart switch/timer: For automated control via timer or app
Typical Installation Costs
As a guide (prices vary by region and complexity):
- Single light installation: £80-£150 (if using existing outdoor circuit)
- Pair of lights: £120-£200
- New circuit from consumer unit: Add £150-£300
- Cable run through walls: Add £50-£100 per wall penetration
More complex installations (multiple lights, new circuits, difficult cable routing) will cost more. Always get a written quote before work begins.
✅ Installation Checklist for Your Electrician
Ensure your electrician:
- Is qualified (Part P competent for electrical work in dwellings)
- Uses appropriate IP-rated components for outdoor installation
- Provides RCD protection on the circuit
- Uses correct cable type for outdoor/buried sections
- Issues certification upon completion
- Tests all connections before sealing the fitting
Do our Fisherman’s Outdoor Lights have sensors?
While our lights are not fitted with PIR sensors, which simply adds to the cost which many users won’t want or need, we can supply stand alone PIR sensors to suit different applications.
Read our guide explaining the benefits of having stand alone sensors;
- Less expensive option
- Various types of fitting – flat wall or corner mounted
- Control more than one light – having several lights come on when the sensor is triggered.
- Colour options to suit your light or building – White, Black & Dark Grey.
Corner Mounted Your Outdoor Light
We can supply colour matched corner brackets made for our UK made lights – Fisherman, Harbour, Burford and Barn. This enables you to fit your outdoor light on a corner, giving light in 2 directions, should you need it.
Best LED Bulbs for Fisherman’s Lights
Choosing the right LED bulb makes a significant difference to both the ambiance and running costs of your fisherman’s wall lights. All our lights use standard E27 screw fittings, giving you wide choice in bulbs.
Understanding E27 Bulb Fittings
E27 (also called Edison Screw or ES) is the most common bulb fitting in the UK for larger light fittings. The “27” refers to the 27mm diameter of the screw base. These are the standard “large” screw fitting – not to be confused with E14 (small screw fitting) or B22 (bayonet fitting).
Recommended LED Specifications
For Standard Size Lights (26cm)
- Wattage: 6-9 watts LED (equivalent to 40-60w traditional bulb)
- Lumens: 470-806 lumens
- Colour temperature: 2700K (warm white) recommended
- Style: Clear or pearl finish depending on preference
For Large Size Lights (32cm)
- Wattage: 9-11 watts LED (equivalent to 60-75w traditional bulb)
- Lumens: 806-1055 lumens
- Colour temperature: 2700K (warm white) recommended
- Style: Clear or pearl finish depending on preference
Colour Temperature Guide
| Colour Temp | Appearance | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2700K | Warm white (yellowish) | Most popular – Creates cosy, welcoming ambiance. Traditional appearance. |
| 3000K | Soft white | Slightly crisper than 2700K. Good for modern properties. |
| 4000K | Cool white (bluer) | Functional/commercial. Generally too clinical for homes. |
Our recommendation: 2700K warm white provides the most authentic, welcoming light that complements the traditional style of fisherman’s lights.
Clear vs Pearl (Frosted) Bulbs
Clear LED Filament Bulbs
Appearance: Visible LED filaments mimic vintage Edison bulbs
Light quality: Creates attractive shadows and sparkle through glass dome
Best for: Decorative effect, period properties, when bulb is visible
Note: Can create more glare if looking directly at bulb
Pearl (Frosted) LED Bulbs
Appearance: White coating diffuses light evenly
Light quality: Softer, more even illumination
Best for: Functional lighting, avoiding glare, modern properties
Note: Less decorative but more comfortable for task lighting
Dimmable Options
If you plan to use dimmer switches, ensure you purchase dimmable LED bulbs – not all LEDs are dimmable. You’ll also need:
- LED-compatible dimmer switch (older dimmer switches designed for incandescent bulbs won’t work properly)
- Confirmation from your electrician that your circuit supports dimming
- Dimmable bulbs clearly marked on packaging
Benefit of dimming: Ability to adjust light levels for different occasions and extend bulb life.
Energy Costs & Lifespan
Running Costs Comparison
Based on 5 hours use per day, at average UK electricity rate (£0.24 per kWh):
- 9W LED bulb: £3.94 per year
- 60W traditional bulb: £26.28 per year
- Annual saving per bulb: £22.34
For a pair of lights, LED bulbs save approximately £45 per year compared to traditional bulbs.
Bulb Lifespan
- Quality LED bulbs: 15,000-25,000 hours (approximately 8-14 years at 5 hours/day)
- Traditional bulbs: 1,000-2,000 hours (less than 1 year at 5 hours/day)
Where to Buy LED Bulbs
E27 LED bulbs are widely available from:
- DIY stores (B&Q, Screwfix, Toolstation)
- Supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s)
- Online retailers (Amazon, eBay)
- Specialist lighting suppliers – We also supply a variety of LED bulbs
Price range: £3-£12 per bulb depending on quality and features. We recommend spending £6-£8 for reliable, long-lasting bulbs from reputable brands like Philips, Osram, or Integral LED.
💡 Pro Tip: Buy Matching Bulbs
When installing multiple lights, purchase all bulbs from the same brand and batch. Even bulbs with identical specifications can vary slightly in colour temperature between manufacturers. Buying matching bulbs ensures consistent light appearance across all your fisherman’s lights.
Customer Reviews & Real Installations
Here’s how homeowners across the UK are using fisherman’s wall lights to enhance their properties.
Coastal Cottage, Cornwall
“We installed large slate grey fisherman’s lights either side of our front door. They’ve been exposed to salt spray and coastal weather for three years now and still look perfect. The powder-coated finish really does hold up to the elements. We paired them with matching pendants in our porch – creates a lovely cohesive look.”
Configuration: 2x Large (32cm) in Slate Grey
Installation: Flanking main entrance, 2m height
Environment: Fully exposed coastal location
Barn Conversion, Yorkshire
“Our barn conversion has very high walls, so we went with the large size lights. Couldn’t be happier – the proportion is perfect for the building scale. We chose matt black which looks fantastic against the honey-coloured stone. The authentic nickel bolts add that industrial edge we were looking for.”
Configuration: 4x Large (32cm) in Matt Black
Installation: Positioned on gable ends and above garage doors
Environment: Rural, exposed to weather
Victorian Terrace, Brighton
“Standard size in traditional cream was perfect for our Victorian terrace. We were worried they might look too rustic, but they actually complement the period features beautifully. The electrician installed them with dusk-to-dawn sensors which is incredibly convenient.”
Configuration: 2x Standard (26cm) in Traditional Cream
Installation: Either side of bay window, 1.8m height
Environment: Urban street, partially sheltered
Country House, Cotswolds
“We mixed sizes – large lights on our main entrance and standard size on our garden gate posts. All in sea spray blue which gives a lovely coastal feel even though we’re landlocked! The quality is exceptional – you can feel the weight and substance when you handle them.”
Configuration: 2x Large (32cm) + 2x Standard (26cm) in Sea Spray
Installation: Mixed installation across property
Environment: Rural Cotswolds, sheltered locations
Modern New Build, Edinburgh
“Initially wasn’t sure if fisherman’s lights would suit our contemporary new build, but the slate grey finish bridges that gap perfectly. They add character to what could otherwise be quite a plain exterior. Installation was straightforward for our electrician as the property was pre-wired for outdoor lights.”
Configuration: 3x Standard (26cm) in Slate Grey
Installation: Front entrance and side path
Environment: Suburban, new build estate
Share Your Installation
We love seeing how customers install their fisherman’s lights! If you’ve purchased from us and would like to share your installation photos, please email photos@fishermanslights.co.uk – we may feature your project here with your permission.
Common Themes from Reviews
Across hundreds of customer reviews, several themes emerge consistently:
- Quality perception: “Substantial”, “well-made”, “authentic” are frequently mentioned
- Weather performance: Customers in exposed coastal locations consistently report excellent durability
- Size selection: Most customers wish they’d gone larger – rarely do people report lights being too big
- Finish durability: Powder coating maintains appearance with minimal maintenance
- Installation ease: Electricians report straightforward installation with clear instructions
Most popular configurations:
- Pair of lights flanking front door (classic symmetrical approach)
- Multiple lights around property perimeter for security and ambiance
- Matching wall and pendant lights for covered areas
- Single large statement light on barn/outbuilding gable end
Waterproof Ratings Explained (IP44)
All our fisherman’s wall lights are rated IP44, but what does this actually mean for outdoor use?
Understanding IP Ratings
IP (Ingress Protection) ratings consist of two digits following “IP”:
- First digit (4): Protection against solid objects
- Second digit (4): Protection against liquids
First Digit – Solid Object Protection
Rating 4 means: Protected against solid objects greater than 1mm (wires, small tools, insects)
This prevents:
- Insects entering the fitting
- Dust accumulation affecting electrical components
- Debris interfering with bulb or internal parts
Second Digit – Liquid Protection
Rating 4 means: Protected against water splashing from any direction
IP44 lights are protected against:
- Rain from all angles
- Water splashing (e.g., from car washing, garden hoses if not directly sprayed)
- Condensation and humidity
- Light pressure washing at distance (though not recommended)
IP44 is NOT protected against:
- Water jets or high-pressure washing
- Submersion in water
- Continuous heavy driving rain at close range (though properly installed lights handle UK weather well)
Is IP44 Enough for UK Outdoor Use?
Yes, absolutely. IP44 is the standard rating for outdoor wall lights in the UK and is specifically designed for exposed outdoor installation in British weather conditions.
Higher ratings (IP65, IP66) are typically used for:
- Ground-level lights subject to flooding
- Lights in extremely exposed marine environments
- Commercial/industrial applications
- Areas requiring regular pressure washing (i.e. pool side)
For residential use, IP44 provides the right balance of weather protection and ease of maintenance (bulb changing).
Coastal Environment Considerations
Fisherman’s lights were originally designed for coastal use, making them ideal for seaside properties. However, coastal environments do require some additional considerations:
Salt Spray Exposure
- All colours suitable: Powder coating provides excellent salt resistance
- Slate grey recommended: Shows salt deposits least visibly
- Maintenance: Occasional rinse with fresh water removes salt build-up
- Coastal bonus: UK-made hand-spun construction is more robust than stamped alternatives in salt air
Wind-Driven Rain
- IP44 rating handles typical coastal weather
- Downward-facing design prevents rain entering from above
- Glass dome protects bulb from horizontal rain
- Proper installation with sealed cable entry is crucial
Maintenance for Weather Protection
While IP44 lights require minimal maintenance, these simple steps maximize longevity:
Annual Maintenance
- Inspect seals: Check glass dome sits properly in gasket
- Clean fixture: Wipe with damp cloth to remove dirt/salt
- Check mounting: Ensure wall fixings remain tight
- Cable entry: Verify weatherproof seal at cable entry point
After Extreme Weather
- Check glass dome remains secure after high winds
- Rinse away salt deposits after coastal storms
- Clear any debris that may have accumulated
We have a guide on looking after your outside lights and on replacing fisherman’s light glasses.
✅ Weather Protection Checklist
- Lights rated IP44 or higher for outdoor use ✓
- Installed by qualified electrician with proper cable sealing ✓
- RCD protection on circuit ✓
- Annual inspection and cleaning ✓
- Appropriate colour choice for environment ✓
Coastal & Cottage Style Tips
Fisherman’s wall lights work beautifully in various architectural styles. Here’s how to make the most of their versatile aesthetic.
Coastal Style Properties
Authentic Maritime Look
For true coastal character:
- Colour choice: Sea spray blue or slate grey for authentic maritime feel
- Pairing: Combine with rope details, driftwood, and natural textures
- Positioning: Install generously – coastal properties benefit from multiple lights
- Complement with: Nautical rope ceiling lights for covered porches
Modern Coastal
For contemporary coastal homes:
- Colour choice: Chalk white or slate grey for cleaner aesthetic
- Approach: Use restraint – fewer lights positioned strategically
- Complement with: Minimalist outdoor furniture, gravel gardens
- Scale: Large size works well on modern builds with clean lines
Country Cottage Properties
Traditional Cottage
For period cottages and character properties:
- Colour choice: Traditional cream complements honey stone, cream render, or brick
- Size: Standard size suits cottage scale better than large
- Positioning: Flanking door, single light over entrance, or illuminating garden paths
- Garden integration: Works beautifully with cottage gardens, climbing roses, wisteria
Farmhouse Style
For country farmhouses and rural properties:
- Colour choice: Matt black for modern farmhouse, traditional cream for classic
- Mix with: Barn lights on outbuildings for cohesive scheme
- Scale up: Large size suits farmhouse proportions
- Multiple installations: Light courtyard areas, stable blocks, and main house
Barn Conversions
Perfect for barn conversions where authentic industrial character is desired:
- Colour choice: Matt black or slate grey emphasizes industrial heritage
- Size matters: Large size essential for barn-scale architecture
- Positioning: Highlight original barn features (gable ends, former cart entrances)
- Quantity: Don’t under-light – barns have large wall areas that need multiple fixtures
- Interior/exterior consistency: Consider matching pendant lights inside
Urban & Suburban Properties
Victorian & Edwardian Terraces
- Colour choice: Matt black, traditional cream, or chalk white
- Size: Standard size suits terrace proportions
- Positioning: Either side of bay windows, flanking front door
- Consider: Planning permission may be required in conservation areas
Modern New Builds
- Colour choice: Slate grey or matt black for contemporary look
- Approach: Add character to otherwise plain exteriors
- Positioning: Use strategically to create focal points
- Mix styles: Combine with modern outdoor lighting for balanced scheme
Creating a Cohesive Lighting Scheme
Matching Wall & Pendant Lights
For covered areas (porches, carports, covered walkways):
- Use matching pendant lights overhead
- Keep same colour and size scale throughout
- Creates professional, designed appearance
Mixing with Other Styles
Fisherman’s lights complement:
- Barn lights: Use barn lights on outbuildings, fisherman’s on main house
- Swan neck lights: Fisherman’s on walls, swan neck above signs or garages
- Post lights: Fisherman’s on walls, traditional post lights for driveways
Garden & Landscape Integration
Highlighting Garden Features
- Position lights to illuminate seating areas
- Light pathways and steps for safety and ambiance
- Use on boundary walls to extend garden use into evening
- Consider wall-mounted lights instead of intrusive bollards
Colour Temperature Considerations
- Warm white (2700K): Enhances warm stone, brick, renders
- Creates ambiance: Makes gardens feel welcoming and comfortable
- Plant-friendly: Warm light doesn’t disrupt plant growth cycles like cool white
💡 Style Tip: The Rule of Symmetry
Fisherman’s lights look particularly effective when used symmetrically – pairs flanking doors, windows, or gates create a balanced, intentional appearance. However, don’t be afraid to use single lights as statement features on larger wall areas or gable ends where symmetry isn’t practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install fisherman’s wall lights myself?
No. Outdoor electrical installation should be carried out by a ‘competent person’ which normally means a qualified electrician. It involves specific regulations and safety requirements. DIY installation can dangerous and may invalidate your home insurance. If your replacing a similar light in the same place – then a competent DIYer could do the replacement.
Are fisherman’s wall lights suitable for coastal areas?
Yes, absolutely. They were originally designed for harsh coastal environments. The powder-coated aluminium construction provides excellent resistance to salt spray and coastal weather. Choose slate grey if you want the finish that shows salt deposits least visibly.
Do the lights come with bulbs?
Our lights are supplied without bulbs, allowing you to choose your preferred LED type, brightness, and colour temperature. They use standard E27 (Edison Screw) fittings – bulbs are widely available. But we do also sell suitable LED bulbs if you wish.
Can I return the lights if they don’t suit my property?
Yes, we offer a 14 returns policy on unused lights that have not been installed, in secure, prefferably, original packaging. Please check our returns policy for full details.
What’s the warranty on fisherman’s wall lights?
Our UK-made lights come with a 1-year manufacturer’s guarantee covering defects in materials and workmanship. This doesn’t cover damage from incorrect installation, misuse, or normal wear and tear. We cover them for a further 4 years against faulty workmanship, so 5 years in total (in 20 years we haven’t had any claims) Full T & C’s available here
How long do they last?
With proper installation and minimal maintenance, UK-made fisherman’s lights typically last 20+ years. The powder-coated finish is extremely durable, and the hand-spun aluminium construction is robust. The only component requiring regular replacement is the LED bulb (every 8-14 years depending on use).
Can I use them indoors?
Yes, though they’re designed for outdoor use. Some customers install them in boot rooms, utility rooms, or garages where they want an industrial/rustic aesthetic or in farmhouse kitchens to match fisherman’s pendants.
Do I need planning permission?
Generally, no planning permission is required for external lighting on residential properties. However: Listed buildings: May require Listed Building Consent & Be considerate of neighbours – use appropriate bulb brightness and positioning.
Can they be used with PIR motion sensors?
Yes. We offer a separate PIR motion sensor that controls one or multiple fisherman’s lights, as an option. This is popular for security and convenience. The lights themselves don’t have built-in sensors. Your electrician can install it. Read our guide on why stand alone PIR sensors are the better option.
Are they energy efficient?
The lights themselves are simply housings for bulbs. Energy efficiency depends on your LED bulb choice. A typical 9W LED bulb costs approximately £3.94 per year to run (5 hours daily), compared to £26.28 for a traditional 60W bulb – saving over £22 annually per light.
Can they be fitted on the corner of walls?
Yes: We offer a colour matched optional bracket that can be used to fit your fisherman’s wall light (or Barn Light) to the corner of an outside wall. Read how this can be beneficial. Fitting a Corner bracket
Do you offer a bulk discount?
Yes. We offer 5% discount when purchasing 2 or more lights, rising to 8% discount when purchasing 5 or more lights. The discount is automatically applied at checkout. For larger projects (10+ lights), please contact us for a project quote.
Can the glass dome be replaced if damaged?
Yes. Replacement glass domes are available. Contact us with your light size and we can supply the correct replacement glass. Installation is straightforward – the glass is held by the decorative nickel securing nuts. Read the maintainance guide for our fisherman’s lights
What’s the difference between UK-made and imported versions?
UK-made lights are:
- Hand-spun aluminium (seamless, stronger construction)
- Powder-coated (more durable than painted finishes)
- Thicker gauge metal
- More precisely engineered
- Cost £115-£145 vs £35-£100+ for imports
- Last significantly longer (20+ years vs 3-5 years typically)
Can I mix different sizes?
Yes, many customers do this effectively. Common approaches:
- Large on main house entrance, standard on garden gates
- Large on barn/outbuilding, standard on main house (if house is smaller scale)
- All same size for consistency if property is uniform scale
How do I clean them?
Very simple:
- General cleaning: Wipe with damp cloth and mild detergent
- Coastal properties: Occasional rinse with fresh water removes salt deposits
- Glass dome: Clean like windows – glass cleaner or vinegar solution
- Avoid: High-pressure washers (can force water into fitting)
Ready to Choose Your Fisherman’s Wall Lights?
Now you have all the information needed to select, install, and enjoy authentic fisherman’s wall lights for your property. Whether you’re lighting a coastal cottage, barn conversion, or adding character to a modern home, these versatile lights deliver both practical illumination and timeless style.
🛒 Ready to Shop?
View our UK made fisherman’s wall lights from £115 →
Hand-crafted in the UK since the 1950s | Standard & Large sizes | 5 colours | IP44 rated | From £115 with multi-buy discounts
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help you choose the perfect lights for your property. Contact our team for personalized advice on:
- Size and colour selection for your specific property
- Creating cohesive lighting schemes
- Technical specifications for your electrician
- Bulk orders and project quotes
- Replacement parts and accessories
This guide was last updated January 2026. While we strive to keep information current, product specifications and prices may change. Please refer to individual product pages for the most up-to-date information.