Fort Gilkicker

Fort Gilkicker, built circa 1865-71, stands on the site of an earlier battery, constructed as a result of the 1860 Royal Commission on the Defence of the UK. It is a semi-circular structure facing south to protect the fleet anchorage; its diameter is defined by a narrow barrack block with a central entrance.

The ground floor contains a series of vaulted ammunition stores, with passages on the outer and inner sides for ventilation and access, all protected by thick outer walls. The first floor features 22 casemates, linked by a continuous passageway and covered by groined vaulting; the floor retains traces of curved rails. A timber floor is present in the middle section, and some casemates contain a chimney breast. Spiral staircases, leading to the lower passageway, are located between the casemates. A glazed screen with a central door separates the middle section from the rear, while an open verandah with an inner passageway is found in the innermost section. The interior is constructed of red brickwork, with cambered arches supported on granite piers at the casemate level. Brick segmental vaulting converges toward the gun-ports, which are now walled up.

An open battery, of slightly later date and built in two periods, sits above the casemates. It holds the remaining features of three smaller (part of five original) and two larger gun emplacements, all defined by circular sinks within a concrete surface. A modern brick and concrete coastguard station now occupies the central position. The original earthwork outer face obscures the casemate loopholes, with exposed granite walling on the return (north face) at each end of the curve. A range of smaller features, including external staircases, vents, interior hoists, and specially detailed lamp positions, are present.

The two-storeyed barrack block, with a mon-pitch roof and sash windows, faces the inner courtyard. The north (outer) side features continuing parapet lines and rifle loops at first-floor level. A round-arched granite gateway, with outer and inner roll mouldings resting on a detached shaft of simple classical detail, is situated near the centre. Four later outshuts, constructed in red brickwork, are positioned on the north side. The fort exemplifies the problem of obsolescence due to rapid advancements in armament technology; it was built, equipped, altered, and re-equipped before becoming obsolete and apparently unused within roughly 30 years.