Portland Castle

Portland Castle is a stone fort on the northern side of Portland island with walls, towers and gun platforms that overlook the harbor entrance. The building now houses a museum about coastal defense and military history with various exhibition rooms and outdoor structures.

King Henry VIII ordered the construction of this fort in 1539 as part of a major coastal defense system against possible French invasions. Over centuries it served as a military stronghold and gradually developed with new defense technologies.

The museum displays weapons, ships and cannons from different periods that show how coastal defense changed over time. The exhibits help visitors understand the role this fort played in protecting England's coast.

The site is best reached on foot and sits on open ground, so visitors should prepare for changeable weather. Comfortable shoes and protective clothing for wind and rain are recommended since many areas are outdoors.

The building was constructed from local Portland limestone, a material that has maintained its structure for nearly 500 years. This stone construction is not only functional but also gives the fort a distinctive yellow color that changes with the seasons.

Location: Portland

Inception: 1539

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Made from material: Portland limestone

Part of: Device Forts

Address: Liberty Road, Portland DT5 1AZ

Phone: +441305820868

Email: Portland.castle@english-heritage.org.uk

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/portland-castle

GPS coordinates: 50.56836,-2.44680

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:42