Situated a mile out to sea from the Hampshire coastline, Spitbank Fort is one of the UK’s most fascinating maritime treasures with a wealth of history and character to discover.

The awe-inspiring construction of granite and iron commissioned by Lord Palmerston, (hence it also being known as one of the ‘Palmerston Follies’) was completed in 1878 and equipped with a variety of armaments to defend Portsmouth Harbour from invading vessels that had managed to break through outer defences in The Channel.

After twenty years, the role of the fort was changed to counter light craft instead of heavy warships with guns being fitted on its roof and searchlights installed to aid visibility after dark. Though always equipped for high level defence, Spitbank Fort never fired a single shot in anger.

In the 1950s, the coastal defence program was disbanded, the fort’s technology was removed and the site was sold as a private concern. Remaining a striking presence in the heart of the Solent, Spitbank Fort is now a unique hospitality and leisure destination, accessible by ferry and featuring panoramic views of the both the sea and the South’s coastline.

Incomparable to any other venue, Spitbank Fort invites you to experience both the calm serenity of its location and the entertainment facilities it provides for a variety of functions that appeal to all ages and tastes.