Fort Elson

Fort Elson is a Victorian-era military fortification in Gosport with an irregular hexagonal shape surrounded by substantial defensive walls and a moat connected to the sea. The structure features specialized defensive features designed to protect different sections of the shoreline.

The fort was built between 1858 and 1860 as the northernmost defense in a chain protecting Portsmouth Harbor. It was constructed during a period when Britain feared potential threats from European powers to its southern coast.

The fort reflects 19th-century military design principles and how Britain approached coastal defense during that era. It stands as one part of a larger defensive network built to protect a major naval area.

The fort is located on a military installation and is not open to the general public without prior authorization. Those interested in visiting should contact the appropriate authorities in advance to request permission and find out the conditions for access.

The fort features specialized gun emplacements on its southern side designed to house artillery while protecting the gun crews inside. This engineering approach was typical of advanced military fortifications built during that period.

Location: Gosport

GPS coordinates: 50.82260,-1.15084

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:48