Popular Isle of Wight beauty spot fort has tourist attraction hopes

Led by the Bembridge Fort Trust, in partnership with the National Trust, the Bembridge Fort project is set to culminate in a fully restored and accessible community heritage hub.

Constructed between 1863 and 1867 to defend Sandown Bay and other gun batteries from the perceived French invasion, Bembridge Fort is one of 18 Island forts.

It fell into disuse after First World War but became a vital defence site during the Second World War, contributing to the development of radar, loop detection systems and other groundbreaking technologies and becoming one of the most secretive places in the UK.

Bridge into Bembridge Fort (Image: Tim Wander)

The German air force reportedly did not bomb the fort as they presumed it was a "Dad's Army camp" and not worth their time.

The fort also supported D-Day efforts before being abandoned by the Ministry of Defence in 1956.

In the decades that followed, Bembridge Fort suffered from vandalism and neglect, with many original features stripped away.

However, a dedicated team of volunteers began clearing efforts 20 years ago, making parts of the fort accessible through guided tours.

A guided tour at Bembridge Fort (Image: Tim Wander)

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Now, the Bembridge Fort Trust is embarking on an ambitious revitalisation plan to preserve the fort’s rich history, create an engaging visitor experience and ensure a lasting legacy for future generations.

In October, the Bembridge Fort Trust and the National Trust agreed on a 21-year lease for the fort, marking a new chapter in its history – sharing the space with spraying specialists Micronair, which leases an office and storage space within the structure.

The vision includes restoring the fort as a community hub and cultural attraction.

Plans involve creating a visitor experience celebrating its Victorian and World II heritage.

One of the fort's two remaining Allan‐Williams Turrets, which are incredibly rare (Image: National Trust Archaeology) When completed, Bembridge Fort will feature an exhibition space, a gift shop, Victorian and WWII rooms, conference and education facilities and an event hall converted from a former ammunition magazine, with a stage planned for performances.

The Trust has even secured a cinema licence, with hopes of hosting film screenings for up to 100 guests.

The fort’s transformation is fuelled by an impressive team of volunteers, including architects, engineers, and historians, alongside young volunteers from Tide Nor Time performing arts group.

A library of over 2,000 donated books is being catalogued for research purposes, and graffiti in the prison cells – including one soldier moaning about a 21-day confinement – is being uncovered, adding personal stories to the historical narrative.

Our tour guide, David Reeves, chair of the Bembridge Fort Trust (Image: IWCP)

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The Trust is also reaching out to the relatives of former military personnel who served at Bembridge Fort, seeking their memories, photos, and stories.

Meanwhile, events and open days offer glimpses into the fort’s progress, with guided tours of accessible areas available to organised groups.

The fort remains home to its unique charm, including Victorian prison beds, rare historical items, and a flock of Hebridean sheep – along with one mischievous goat known for its escapades – and hibernating butterflies adorn the brickwork in winter.

Historian Tim Wander, project manager, described Bembridge Fort as a “blank canvas” for the community.

Inside Bembridge Fort (Image: Tim Wander)

He envisions a vibrant, multi-use space that will still stand proud in 20 or 30 years.

Suggestions from the public are welcomed, with an upcoming event on February 12 at Bembridge Village Hall offering an opportunity to engage with the community and gather ideas.

The Trust is also planning landscape tours to explore the fort’s archaeological surroundings and considering a VE Day event on May 10.

The ultimate goal is to make Bembridge Fort a leading Island attraction and a venue for public events.

Ammunition magazine which will become a 60 seater performing space (Image: IWCP)

The Bembridge Fort Trust is breaking new ground as “trailblazers” in heritage conservation, with the National Trust recognising the project as the first of its kind.

All proceeds will be reinvested into the fort and its environment, ensuring safe access and long-term protection for this historic landmark.

For more information or to share your connection to the fort, contact info@bembridgefort.org