Staddon Fort

Staddon Fort is a military fortification on elevated terrain east of Plymouth, built with granite casemates and earthwork defenses to guard the harbor entrance. The structure occupies a strategic position overlooking the water and surrounding coastline.

The fort was built between 1861 and 1869 as part of a national defense network, constructed in response to fears of naval threats from France. It was originally equipped with guns and mortars positioned to cover the harbor approaches.

The fort represents Victorian military engineering principles, demonstrating the period's response to perceived French naval threats through extensive coastal fortification systems.

The site functions as an active Royal Navy facility and is not open to public visits. Security fencing surrounds the perimeter, preventing close access to the structures.

A military road links this fort to other coastal batteries across Staddon Heights, forming part of an interconnected defense system. This network allowed coordinated fire coverage of the approaches to Plymouth Harbor.

Location: City of Plymouth

Inception: 1861

Part of: Staddon Heights Defences including Fort Staddon Fort, Brownhill Battery, Watch House Battery, Staddon Heights Battery, Staddon Battery and associated features and structures

GPS coordinates: 50.34600,-4.11400

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:24