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Throughout all of that the Orford lighthouse has for more than 200 years cast its beam 22 miles out to sea to warn shipping and save lives.

It's only open to the public one day a year so many people don't get the chance to have a look around.

The first lighthouse was built here after a great storm in October 1627: 32 ships were wrecked off the Ness and many lives were lost. The lighthouse we know today dates from 1792.

It emits one flash every five seconds from a 70 watt, 12 volt lamp turned on automatically by a photo-cell.

It weighs four tonnes and floats on a bed of mercury: a small child can push it around with the touch of a finger.

Lighthouse attendant Keith Seaman

Keith Seaman is the lighthouse attendant and has been showing people round Suffolk lighthouses for more than 20 years: "Lighthouses are somewhat unique in people's minds.

"Coming here alone at night can be very eerie, but to me it's a beautiful building and I love showing people around it."

The lighthouse is now just a few metres away from the sea and some fear for its future. Owners Trinity House are keeping a close eye on the situation.

"Shingle beach like Orford Ness is extremely dynamic - it's constantly moving," says Grant Lohoar from The National Trust.

"Obviously they can't wait until it's fallen down to then rebuild so a decision will have to be made.

"Orford Ness definitely has an aura about it, something a bit dark and forboding."

Ferries to Orford Ness run every 20 minutes from Orford Quay.