Newhaven Fort - © Chris Downer
Newhaven Fort is located in the town of Newhaven in East Sussex. The famous fortification offers visitors the chance to enjoy an interesting day out at a heritage site in a seaside location. Visitors can see a number of fascinating exhibitions and displays that chart the history of the fort and the area, among the exhibitions to look out for are those charting World War I and II and life at the Fort. The site is a 10 acre site offering some wonderful coastal views and the chance to explore the site whilst taking in some great panoramic views of the coast.
Attractions
Newhaven Fort in West Sussex is located on England's South Coast a few miles from Brighton. The Fort here is a historic attraction and attracts a number of visitors each year keen to see the heritage attraction. Visitors to the Fort will be greeted with a great example of an English Fortification and visitors can also experience a range of sights, sounds and smells of the period in which the Fort was in use, all of which adds to the authentic experience.
The current Fort structure was built in the 1860's and represents the largest work of defence ever in the area of Sussex. Over the years the Fort has acted as a defence for the UK through a number of conflicts including both World Wars. There was a period in its history where the Fort was left and neglected, however the Fort has since been restored to provide visitors with the great attraction it is today.
There are number of exhibitions and audio-visual displays that help visitors to better understand the history at the Fort and the stories behind it.
The Guard Room is located at the entry and exit point of the Fort, in the past those suspected of doing wrong were kept here on a menial diet in the cells. Currently there are souvenirs and a range of books on offer.
The Fort Collection/Showcase displays exhibits for visitors to see, there are a range of interesting and fascinating equipment and artefacts that have been collected over the years on view here.
The First World War exhibition offers visitors with a moving experience taking a look at what is known the most destructive and terrifying war the world has seen to date. There is a video for visitors to see that recalls the events leading up to the war, its causes and the various battles that were fought all those years ago. A trench scene is shown in the exhibition and there is an audio presentation too along with artefacts from the Somme battlefield.
The Sussex Land, Sea and Air exhibition includes references to the army and navy, the exhibition has a collection of artefacts from the Robertsbridge Aviation Society. Also displayed are part of a V-1 Flying Bomb, visitors can hear the fearsome noise in the display.
The Theatre offers a short film presentation that takes you to the original designer of the Fort at Newhaven. The film outlines the creation of the Fort and its history including the key role it played in both the World Wars and its role up to the current day. There are film showings throughout the day.
The Sussex and Surrey Yeomanry exhibition contains a collection of medals, uniforms and a range of artefacts that details the long history of the two Yeomanry regiments. The regiments were formed to help stop attempts at invading the country and have played a valuable role with the British Army over the years.
Visitors can also see the large walls at the Fort, tunnels and gun emplacements all of which help in recreating what is was like to live in a Victorian Fortress.
How to Get There
The site is accessible by both car and public transport.
By Car:
The distance from London is approx 50 miles with a journey time of approx 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes.
Newhaven is located between Brighton and Eastbourne on the A259 coastal road. From London take the M25 and at junction 7 take the M23, the M23 will turn in to the A23, at the junction with the A27 take the A27 and then the A26 that will take you to Newhaven. Newhaven is sign posted from the A27 and on the approach roads into the town there are brown signs showing visitors to the Fort.
Parking is available free of charge on the site.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode to use is BN9 9DS.
By Train:
There are train services to Newhaven Town Station located just over 1 mile from the Fort. Services are available to Brighton where visitors can get frequently services to and from London stations such as London Bridge.
Contact Details
Newhaven Fort
Fort Road
Newhaven
East Sussex
BN9 9DS
Telephone: +44 (0)1273 517622
email: info@newhavenfort.org.uk
Website: Newhaven
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
The Fort is open from the start of March until the end of October:
Mon to Sun: 10.30 to 18.00 approx (17.00 in October)
Please Note: The last admission is 1 hour prior to closing time.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adult: £6 approx, Children: £4 approx, Concessions: £5 approx.
Facilities:
There is a Cafe that serves hot and cold drinks and refreshments, a range of snacks and lunches along with cakes and ice creams.
The Shop sells a range of memorabilia and souvenirs including books and CDs.
There is an Adventure Playground for children under 12.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Newhaven Fort Map
Tips & Other Considerations
There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is wise to double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open and avoid disappointment.
Follow common sense travel tips and remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times. Keep valuables such as wallets/purses hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to Newhaven ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. For door to door directions use the journey planner to plan your trip. Check the latest traffic information before you travel.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
