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Fort Scratchley: A Coastal Fortress with a Storied Past

Explore Newcastle's historic coastal fortress with panoramic views, tunnel tours, and a daily time gun firing.

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Fort Scratchley, perched atop Flagstaff Hill in Newcastle East, is a historic coastal defense installation and museum. Built in 1882, it offers panoramic views of the Hunter River, Nobbys Beach, and the Pacific Ocean, and is a reminder of Australia's military history.

A brief summary to Fort Scratchley

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive before 3:30 PM, as that is the last entry time.
  • Catch the 1 PM time gun firing (except Tuesdays).
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the tunnels.
  • Check the weather forecast, as the gun firing is subject to weather conditions.
  • Book tunnel tours in advance, especially for groups.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Newcastle Beach, walk west along Nobbys Road towards Nobbys Headland. Fort Scratchley is located on the right, atop Flagstaff Hill, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. The entrance is well-signposted. There are no costs associated with walking to the fort.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Newcastle Light Rail to the Newcastle Beach stop. From there, walk west along Nobbys Road to Fort Scratchley, approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, several bus routes service Newcastle East; check the Newcastle Transport website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single adult fare on public transport is around $2.80-$3.50.

  • Driving

    From the Newcastle CBD, follow Wharf Road east towards Nobbys Beach. Turn left onto Nobbys Road and continue to Fort Scratchley. Onsite parking is available, including dedicated function and event parking. Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak season. Paid parking options are available nearby, with hourly rates around $5.70 and daily rates around $12. Monthly parking is also available in Newcastle East from $325.

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Discover more about Fort Scratchley

Fort Scratchley stands as a prominent historical landmark in Newcastle, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Australia's coastal defenses and military past. Originally named Braithwaite's Head, the site dates back to 1801 and is considered the birthplace of coal mining in Australia. In 1882, the fort was constructed to protect Newcastle from potential Russian attacks, though it never saw action until World War II. On June 8, 1942, Fort Scratchley's guns engaged a Japanese submarine shelling the city, marking the only time Australian land-based guns fired upon an enemy naval vessel. The Australian Army occupied the fort until 1972. Today, Fort Scratchley is a museum managed by the City of Newcastle and the Fort Scratchley Historical Society. Visitors can explore the fort's historic buildings and installations, including museum rooms, and take guided tunnel tours to learn about its history. The fort also features a daily 1pm time gun firing, a tradition that once helped sea captains calibrate their navigation instruments. With its rich history and stunning views, Fort Scratchley offers an engaging experience for tourists of all ages.

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