Sandown Fort

Sandown Fort is a granite coastal fortification standing in Sandown Bay with thick stone walls and multiple artillery positions arranged for defense. Today it operates as part of the Isle of Wight Zoo, blending its original military design with contemporary zoo facilities and grounds.

The structure was completed in 1864 as part of Lord Palmerston's national defense strategy against possible French naval threats during the Victorian era. This project represented a shift in British coastal defense thinking and reflected the political tensions of the period.

The fort represents Victorian military engineering and houses zoo facilities today, combining its original purpose with modern use in an unexpected way. Visitors can see how the thick stone structures coexist alongside animal enclosures and landscaped areas, creating an unusual juxtaposition of history and contemporary life.

The fort is located near Sandown's beach and is accessible through the zoo grounds. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear as parts of the structure feature stairs and uneven surfaces.

The construction required granite blocks that were shipped to Brading Harbour and then transported overland to reach the site. This method was necessary because direct delivery routes proved difficult and the harbor facility offered the most practical solution.