Rufus Castle

Rufus Castle is a pentagonal stone fortress that stands on a rocky promontory above Church Ope Cove with heavily fortified walls. The structure features archer loopholes and gun ports built into its thick masonry, designed for various periods of defensive need.

The fortress originated as a Norman stronghold and served important military functions during the power struggle for the English throne in the early 12th century. Robert, Earl of Gloucester, played a key role in controlling it during this period of conflict and political turbulence.

The fortress appears in literary works as a named location, most notably in Thomas Hardy's novel where it takes on a fictional name. Artists including J.M.W. Turner have depicted it in paintings, making it part of the local cultural record.

The site is open for viewing during daylight hours and can be explored from outside, with the nearby Portland Museum offering virtual 3D tours for remote visitors. The location sits exposed on cliffs and can be windy, so appropriate clothing is advisable.

The castle walls are remarkably thick and riddled with dozens of defensive openings, earning it the nickname "Bow and Arrow Castle." This abundance of loopholes was unusual for its era and represented an advancement in fortification techniques.