Solent Forts
Standing proud in Solent Water, you can see 4 Palmerston Forts. The forts were built during the 1860s prompted by concerns about the strength of the French Navy.
Named after Lord Palmerston, the prime minister at the time, locally they are more commonly known as Solent Forts.
Spitbank Fort was a luxury island hotel but it wasn’t always so. Building on Spitbank Fort started in 1867 until 1878 at the grand cost of £167,300. It’s now for sale and details can be found here.
St Helens Fort stands close to the Isle of Wight and was built to protect St Helens Anchorage. We are led to believe that this privately owned Fort is currently not being used. In 2003 it was offered for sale but would-be buyers were deterred when finding out that living there would not give the residents access to any residential services.
Horse Sand Fort is one of the two larger Forts. Standing at 61m / 200 feet wide. In 2020, Horse Sand Fort was put up for sale. It was described as a blank canvas, with 100 chambers and living quarters, plus the original gun carriage. There are also nesting Peregrine Falcons.
No Man’s Land Fort is pretty identical to Spitbank Fort. It has been tastefully kitted out as a hotel. Since 2020 it’s been for sale. So if you are interested you can become the proud owner of a 99,000 sq ft hotel, restaurant and leisure complex on four floors, including a helipad.
Click here to return to the Solent Destination Guide.
How long to get there
From Hamble Point Marina it will take you about 40 minutes to get to Solent Forts.
Where to moor
You are unable to moor at Solent Forts. These are private property.