Fort Fareham

Fort Fareham is a pentagonal military fortification in Fareham featuring thick defensive walls, deep ditches, and underground casemates designed to hold artillery pieces. The structure was engineered to resist bombardment from naval vessels approaching from the sea.

The fort was constructed between 1861 and 1868 as part of a widespread defensive network against potential French invasion. It formed one of several fortifications built to protect Portsmouth and its harbor.

The structure represents Victorian military engineering principles with its pentagonal design, deep ditches, and specialized casemates for housing artillery pieces.

The fort holds protected status as a scheduled monument, which means certain areas may be restricted or require advance permission to visit. It is best to check local access conditions before planning your visit.

During the Cold War, sections of the fort were used as an emergency command center by local authorities to coordinate civil defense operations. The underground chambers served as secure facilities for coordinating protective measures during periods of heightened tension.