No Man's Land Fort

No Man's Land Fort is a circular fortification in the Solent about 1.4 miles from the Isle of Wight coast. The platform rests on a stone foundation and carries high outer walls with gun positions on multiple levels.

Work began in 1867 as part of a defense system against French warships and continued until 1880. The structure served military purposes again during the Second World War and was later converted for civilian use.

The name refers to its position between Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight, where it stands in open water like a boundary marker. Visitors today can explore the circular arrangement of rooms that wrap around the protected courtyard.

The fort sits in open water and can only be reached by boat or helicopter. Because of its location at sea, waves and wind may affect the journey out.

The heavy granite stones for construction were sunk to the seabed and then compacted to create a stable base. This method secured the platform's stability for more than a century.

Location: Nettlestone and Seaview

Inception: 1867

Part of: Portsmouth Palmerston Forts

GPS coordinates: 50.74010,-1.09493

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:26