Fort Widley

Fort Widley stands on Portsdown Hill above Portsmouth, one of the Palmerston Forts built between 1860 and 1868. It was designed by William Crossman of the Royal Engineers to defend the city from inland attack. The fort was constructed from chalk with red brick and local flint for buildings and revetments. A large dry ditch surrounded the fort, adding to its defensive strength. Inside, barracks housed officers and other ranks, while armament included 13-inch mortars and various guns.

The fort’s armament changed as weapon technology improved. Originally planned with 68-pounder guns, it later received RBL 7-inch Armstrong guns and other artillery. By the 1890s, it held five RML 6.6-inch howitzers, ten RBL 7-inch guns, two RML 8-inch howitzers, and nine RBL 40-pounder guns. The guns were removed in 1902, ending its active military role.

Today, Fort Widley is an activity centre run by Peter Ashley, featuring an equestrian centre. The fort has hosted international search and rescue exercises and even appeared in a Hollywood film. Its listed buildings and historic gun emplacement remain well preserved, offering a glimpse into its Victorian military past.