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In the mid-19th century, Britain was gripped by fears of French invasion. To counteract this threat, Lord Palmerston, the prime minister, commissioned a series of new coastal defences. Three prototypes were built in Sussex – at Littlehampton (1854), Newhaven (1855), and Shoreham-by-Sea (1857; see opposite) – which were followed by a nationwide network of larger forts. Known as ‘Palmerston Forts’ (and, later, ‘Palmerston’s Follies’, as they were never used for their intended purpose), these imposing installations included the ten-acre Newhaven Fort. Completed in 1871, this was the first military structure in the world to use concrete in its construction.
For almost a century, Newhaven’s clifftop fortifications played a key role in defending the south coast, as well as serving as an artillery training centre – although the site only suffered an enemy attack once in its history, when the fort was bombed by the Luftwaffe in 1940. In 1962, however, the MOD handed the fort back to Newhaven Town Council, who had no funds to maintain it. Gradually, the historic remains fell into disrepair – but salvation came in the 1980s, when the Sussex landmark was restored and turned into a visitor attraction.
Now the fort has undergone a further transformation, and reopened in February following a year-long, £7.5 million renovation project. As well as undergoing extensive preservation work, the site’s historic offerings have been brought fully up to date. Each of the 18 casemates (vaults) lining the parade ground has been turned into an exhibition gallery, housing displays on local archaeology; the fort’s construction, decline, and resurrection; garrison life; and First and Second World War history. These latter themes are also brought vividly to life in immersive galleries recreating the trenches of the Western Front; civilian experiences on the ‘Home Front’ and during the Blitz; and how the ill-fated Dieppe Raid of 1942 and the Normandy Landings of 1944 were planned.
Visitors can walk along the fort’s ramparts and see the gun emplacements that once protected the harbour; enjoy panoramic views from the Battery Observation Post (which is accessible for the first time); and explore an atmospheric network of tunnels descending deep underground. Meanwhile, the fort’s facilities have been refreshed, including a café, gift shop, events space, and a large new playground. The result is an illuminating, entertaining, and sometimes powerfully poignant day out, with something to appeal to visitors of all ages.
Further information: Newhaven Fort will be open until 2 November 2025, before closing for the winter. Standard admission costs £12.95 for adults and £9.95 for children (under-4s free, with other concessions and group discounts available). All tickets are valid for 12 months, offering unlimited return visits during seasonal opening hours. Advance booking is recommended. See www.newhavenfort.org.uk for more details.
