Hurst Castle

Hurst Castle is a stone fortress that extends along a narrow shingle spit on the coast, built with thick defensive walls. The structure contains multiple gun emplacements positioned to overlook the Solent waterway.

King Henry VIII commissioned the fort in 1541 as part of a coastal defense system against foreign invasion. Over the centuries it was expanded and updated to match advances in military technology.

The fort holds a collection of cannons, uniforms, and personal items from soldiers spanning different centuries. These objects show how military personnel lived and worked within these walls over time.

Visitors can reach the fort either by taking a ferry from Keyhaven harbor or by walking along the shingle spit. The exposed location means conditions can be wet and windy, so appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear are advisable.

During the Second World War, specialized chambers within the fortress were used to test experimental weapons and conduct secret development work. These hidden rooms remain visible today and reveal the innovations tested during wartime.

Location: Milford-on-Sea

Inception: 1541

Fee: Yes

Part of: Hurst Castle and lighthouse, Device Forts, South Coast Palmerston Forts

Address: Hurst Castle, Milford on Sea, Lymington, SO41 0TP

Website: https://hurstcastle.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 50.70640,-1.55120

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24