The five forts, with two supporting batteries, were built between 1861 and 1874
on the top of Portsdown Hill overlooking Portsmouth to protect it from an
invasion force attacking from the land. They have a low profile and are
disguised by earth and grass banks.
A six sided design was used for Fort Nelson (with 26 guns) and Fort Wallington
(17 guns) and seven sided for the remainder - Fort Purbrook, Fort Widley (21
guns) and Fort Southwick (23 guns). All had a complement of about 220 men.
Fort Purbrook had two additional defenses to protect its eastern side,
Farlington Redoubt (demolished in 1970) and Crookhorn Retreat (destroyed by
1876).
Fort Purbrook is now an activity centre, Fort Southwick remains MOD property
and Fort Wallington is mainly demolished and is now part of an industrial estate.
Fort Nelson is now a military museum, open April - October. Fort Widley Museum is open weekends April - September.
| Directions |
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| On the B2177, the cliff top road overlooking Portsmouth. |
Scroll down for other photos
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