Fort Cumberland

Fort Cumberland is a military fortification in Portsmouth with a five-sided design featuring five bastions arranged in a defensive pattern. The structure occupies substantial land at the entrance to Langstone Harbour and displays the characteristic design of 18th-century military architecture.

The fort began as an initial fortification established in 1747 under the direction of the Duke of Cumberland. A major reconstruction between 1785 and 1812 strengthened it to defend the Royal Navy Dockyard at Portsmouth.

The fort displays how military defenses were built in the 18th century, with its five-sided shape and bastions still visible today. Visitors can understand how this place served as a protection point for the harbor entrance.

Visiting the fort requires planning ahead since guided tours operate by appointment rather than on regular schedules. Special access days are available during Heritage Open Days and similar community events throughout the year.

Within the fort's grounds, the Portsmouth Distillery Company operates a spirits production facility. This unexpected reuse demonstrates how historic military structures can serve peaceful purposes in modern times.

Location: City of Portsmouth

Part of: Portsmouth Palmerston Forts

Website: https://historicengland.org.uk/about/contact-us/fort-cumberland

GPS coordinates: 50.78889,-1.03250

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40