British hardened field defences of World War II

The concrete defensive structures form a network of 28,000 installations strategically positioned along beaches and inland strategic points throughout Great Britain.

Following Germany's invasion of Low Countries in May 1940, the British military constructed thousands of pillboxes and obstacles to protect against potential invasion.

The surviving structures stand as permanent reminders of British determination during World War II, with local communities integrating them into heritage trails.

Many pillboxes measured 13 feet square with thick concrete walls, containing internal shelves and tables for weapons support with five sided firing positions.

Several pillboxes now serve as protected habitats for bat colonies, with their sturdy construction and controlled environment providing suitable roosting conditions.

GPS coordinates: 54.00370,-2.54786

Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:45