Hilsea Lines, Military fortification in Hilsea, Portsmouth, England.
Description
Hilsea Lines is an extensive fortification along the northern edge of Portsea Island, featuring massive ramparts, ditches, and defensive structures made of stone and earth. The complex stretches for several kilometers and displays the intricate geometry of military fortress design.
History
The fortification underwent major reconstruction between 1858 and 1871 following military lessons from the Crimean War and plans by Colonel Jervois. These modifications made it a modern defensive line to protect Portsmouth's strategic position.
Culture
The fortifications show Victorian military engineering and were part of Portsmouth's transformation into one of England's most heavily defended cities. Today visitors can see how these structures shape the urban landscape and function as a public green space.
Practical
Visitors can explore the accessible sections of the fortification, which received a Green Flag award in 2010 for its maintained public areas. The paths are generally flat and easy to walk, making them suitable for different mobility levels.
Did you know?
The fortification includes special bridges designed to accommodate both road and rail traffic while maintaining defensive capabilities against attacks from the north. This engineering solution shows how defenders balanced practical needs with military requirements.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (City of Portsmouth).
Wymering Manor
1.7 km
Fort Widley
2.3 km
Farlington Marshes
2.3 km
Sails of the South
1.5 km
Church of St Alban
2.4 km
Church of St Peter and St Paul
1.7 km
Church of St Philip
810 m
Christ Church
2.5 km
The Church of the Resurrection
1.8 km
Cosham Park House
1 km
Fountain Public House And Attached Boundary Wall And Gate Piers
2 km
George Inn
2.3 km
Cosham Library
1.5 km
Great Salterns House And Attached Walls
2.6 km
511, London Road
907 m
Green Farmhouse
490 m
East Cosham House
1.5 km
73 And 75, Kingston Crescent
2.6 km
Gun Mounted On Wood Block In Front Of Fort Widley
2.2 km
Former Barn To North Of Green Farmhouse
454 m
Odeon Port Solent
2.6 km
Milestone: Hilsea Market Approximately 200 Metres South Of Military Road
538 m
Milestone 70.5 Metres East Of New Inn
1.9 km
Cosham House
1.5 km
65-71, Kingston Crescent
2.6 km
Town Boundary Stone At Junction Of London Road And Torrington Road
1.2 km
Milestone Adjacent To The Red Lion Public House (Public House Not Included)
1.5 km
Scenic viewpoint
2.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes