Fort Bovisand

Fort Bovisand stands on the Devon coast near Bovisand beach, overlooking the narrow entrance to Plymouth Sound. Built after the 1860 defence report, it sits on the mainland opposite the eastern end of the Plymouth Breakwater. The site includes a stone jetty from 1816, once used by warships collecting fresh water. The upper part of the fort contains the remains of Staddon Height Battery, begun in 1845. The main structure was completed in 1869 with 23 granite casemates arranged in an arc. The fort’s armament changed many times, from 9-inch and 10-inch Rifled Muzzle Loaders to quick-firing guns by the early 20th century. A three-storey observation tower was added in 1942 to direct fire against E-boats. After military use ended in 1956, the fort became a diving school in 1970. Later it served as an outdoor activity centre for schools, with converted buildings used as bunkhouses and staff quarters. Today the site houses Discovery Divers and plans for a heritage attraction remain under discussion. The cliffs and access road have been stabilised to secure the fort and nearby homes. Work began in 2021 to restore parts of the complex, with further development expected. The fort’s tunnels and casemates still stand, offering a glimpse of its military past and ongoing revival.