Friends of Shoreham Fort - Shoreham-by-Sea

Friends of Shoreham Fort

Friends of Shoreham Fort is a dedicated group working tirelessly to preserve and promote one of the UK's most significant historical landmarks. Located in Forthaven, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 5HY, this organization offers a wealth of knowledge and experiences for both locals and tourists alike.

About Shoreham Fort

Shoreham Fort is a 19th-century fortification that played a crucial role in defending the UK's southern coast. With its rich history and strategic location, the fort serves as both an educational center and a museum, showcasing the era's military history and the challenges faced in safeguarding the nation. The fort itself is a remarkable example of Victorian engineering and architecture, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados.

Specialties

• Historical landmark
• Charity
• Education center
• Heritage preservation
• Museum
• Tourist attraction
• Visitor center
• Volunteer organization

Friends of Shoreham Fort specializes in bringing the fort's history to life through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs. The organization also focuses on preserving the fort's architectural integrity and maintaining its historical significance for future generations.

Other Points of Interest

• On-site services
• Wheelchair-accessible car park
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet
• Assistive hearing loop
• Wheelchair-accessible seating
• LGBTQ+ friendly
• Transgender safe space
• Good for kids
• Paid parking lot

The organization is committed to making the fort accessible to all visitors, ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone. With its dedication to providing a comfortable and inclusive experience, Friends of Shoreham Fort caters to a diverse range of visitors, including families, school groups, and history buffs.

Opinions and Reviews

With an impressive 547 reviews on Google My Business, Friends of Shoreham Fort has garnered a stellar reputation among visitors. The average rating stands at 4.3 out of 5, indicating a high level of satisfaction among patrons. Many reviewers appreciate the organization's efforts in preserving the fort's history and making it accessible to the public. Visitors also praised the well-maintained grounds, informative exhibits, and the friendly staff. Despite some concerns regarding the fort's current state, most agree that the experience is well worth a visit.

One reviewer mentioned, 'We thoroughly enjoyed a walk around the perimeter. There are security fences all around with no access to 'inside' the walls- still lots of history to see, gorgeous cafe nearby, cheap parking if you need it (we walked to it) with beautiful views of south downs.' This highlights the overall positive experience visitors have when exploring the fort and its surroundings.

In conclusion, Friends of Shoreham Fort is an essential stop for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a unique and educational experience. With its dedication to preservation, accessibility, and community engagement, the organization continues to make strides in keeping the fort's legacy alive and thriving.

👍 Reviews of Friends of Shoreham Fort

Sara R.

5/5

Well...looking at some of the gorgeous pictures on Goolge maps, it looks like it has seen better days. I'm not sure what has happened but probably a funding issue?
No matter...We thoroughly enjoyed a walk around the perimeter. There are security fences all around with no access to 'inside' the walls- still lots of history to see, gorgeous cafe nearby, cheap parking if you need it (we walked to it) with beautiful views of south downs.

S S.

4/5

I was expecting the to be a big place but it was relatively small. The impact it had seemed substantial. The original barracks and soldiers living quarter's outlines are there. The parking lot is still under maintenance but there are plenty off road parking nearby. The beach is beautiful itself and has a nice walkway along the beach. Overall It was a nice experience.

Matthew M.

3/5

Such a shame it's currently closed. Desperate to get inside. Not too photogenic with fencing to the front (but understandable)

Kevin S.

4/5

We can confirm that Shoreham Fort is still closed. We had visited here many years ago (~2004), and our then-young kids had clambered all over the brickwork etc. So we felt a bit sad to see that it was closed 'due to vandalism'.
Anyway, since then the 'Friends...' have added a bunker display, which was nice to see. OTOH, we WERE able to walk along the fishing pier and stare at the sea. Very good!

Keith S.

4/5

The fort is interesting but not spectacular, as only the fort remains ,the barracks etc has been demolished. There are plenty of information boards explaining the usage over the years. There is a pay and display car park adjacent . The setting of the fort on the entrance to the harbour offers views of ships leaving or entering plus the various small pleasure boats ,a nice place for a picnic. The adjacent beach is family friendly with a long walkway to make it easier for the infirm or push chair users to enjoy the area.

Gary S.

4/5

Old historical pace with a good view of harbour. inside was closed, think they sometimes have open days, not sure if facilities open. we are still in partial covid restrictions at time of writing.

Russell W.

4/5

Built around 1857 to defend Shoreham port from the French. Also known as Shoreham or Kingston Redoubt. You can arrive here by walking along the boardwalk on the beach or there is a car park. There is a tea hut that may or may not be open, best to bring your own refreshments. On a cold and misty day it's quite an atmospheric place, this Fort is right on the beach and can feel a little bleak at times but that's what makes it so much more enjoyable.

Ray B.

4/5

The fort itself is a little underwelming, visit Newhaven fort and you will see what i mean.
That said its probably relatively early days for the group running it and with a lottery grant! and decent council support wonders could be worked.
Good for the children doing a local history project.
Its probably a half day out what with watching the boats come into the harbour and a paddle.
You could make a full day by using the beach which is a short but uneven walk away(not recommended for chair users).
Sea Fishing off the harbour arm is by membership i believe so google first to find out. Fishing from the beach though is free and its a long beach!
Parking can become full quickly on bank holidays and weekends but mid week you should be fine. There is extremely limited on street parking close to the fort.