Fort Purbrook

SU 60 NE HAVANT PORTSDOWN HILL ROAD 26.5.76

3/8 Fort Purbrook II*

The easternmost of a series of Palmerston forts (of the 1860's) which ring the Portsmouth naval base at a distance of 3 to 5 miles, the northern line being constructed on and within the east-west chalk ridge of Portsdown Hill. The polygonal form has a deep ditch on the outer faces, lined with brick walls. There are brick lined tunnels and staircases within the chalk, giving access to rifle parapets, gun emplacements, ammunition stores, and central assembly ground, which forms the earthen platform. To the rear (south side) is a central triangular barrack block, which includes two tiers of casemates on the outer faces, flanked by plain walling, with entrances on each side; the external face is red brickwork, with a series of narrow openings. The gateways have 'Norman' arches with roll mouldings, and 2 recessed columns with cushion caps, all in stone. Little altered, and never used as a defence from a landward assault from the north. Ancient Monument.

Listing NGR: SU6942006469