What's in a name

Belle Toute is sometimes spelt 'Belle Tout', 'Bell Tout', and even 'Bell Toot' although these are what we consider to be misspellings. Going back as far as we can the name seems to have been spelt as 'Belle Toute' and we will continue to keep it this way.

In terms of pronunciation it is 'Bell Toot' which is from where the above corruption is likely to occur.

Belle Toute appears to be the name of the elevated area of chalk cliff upon which the lighthouse was built, hence it to be known as 'The Belle Toute Lighthouse', therefore it is named after its location.

Over time people have often just referred to the lighthouse as 'Belle Toute'.

What does it mean?

There are a number of different references to the potential origin of the name which suggest it is perhaps Saxon in origin. However, it may also be French as it translates as, Belle = Beautiful and Toute = All, hence 'All Beautiful', which would be very fitting for such a magnificent and picturesque location."

Your photos and experiences

We want to create the most comprehensive library about the lighthouse and the surrounding area that we can although we need your help to do it.

If you could send in your pictures or send in your words we will add this information to our archive and the website.