Harwich Redoubt Fort
A compact Napoleonic fort turned community-run museum, guarding Harwich Harbour with original cannons and passionate volunteer guides.
Perched on a natural hill overlooking Harwich Harbour, this circular Napoleonic-era fort was built in 1808 as part of England’s coastal defences. Now restored and run by the Harwich Society, it operates as a military museum with original cannons, historic displays, and passionate volunteer guides. Visitors explore the battlements, gun emplacements, and underground chambers of this stout redoubt, learning about its role in defending against invasion and its later use as barracks. Open seasonally and on Sundays, it’s a hands‑on history experience for families and military enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Harwich Redoubt Fort
- B1352, Harwich, CO12 3LT, GB
- +441255556449
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the Harwich Society website before visiting, as opening hours vary by season and depend on volunteer availability.
- Bring small change or cash; the kiosk sells refreshments and souvenirs, and card facilities may be limited.
- Wear sturdy shoes – the ramparts and surrounding paths can be uneven, especially after rain.
- Ask about the £4 guidebook; it offers a detailed history of the fort and enhances the self-guided tour.
- Combine your visit with the nearby maritime heritage trail and Harwich Museum for a full day exploring the town’s naval past.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Local bus
Regular local buses serve Harwich town centre from nearby towns; from the main bus stops, it’s about a 15‑minute walk along Main Road to the Redoubt, with clear signage and pavement access.
-
Train + walk
Harwich Town railway station is roughly a 10‑minute walk from the Redoubt; follow Main Road uphill, then look for the entrance opposite 42a Main Road, clearly marked with a blue sign.
-
Car
Drive to Harwich and follow signs to the Redoubt; there is limited on‑site parking with a narrow entrance, so larger vehicles may find access tight, and spaces fill quickly on event days.
-
Walking from town
From Harwich town centre, walk up Main Road for about 15 minutes; the route is mostly flat with pavement, passing residential streets before reaching the fort entrance opposite 42a Main Road.
Harwich Redoubt Fort location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Clear Skies
Discover more about Harwich Redoubt Fort
A Fort Born of Invasion Fears
Harwich Redoubt Fort stands as a bold reminder of Britain’s Napoleonic anxieties. Constructed between 1805 and 1808 on a natural hill that once bore Hill House, this circular redoubt was designed to mount ten 24‑pounder guns and shelter a regiment with enough supplies to withstand a prolonged siege. Part of a chain of coastal defences stretching from Aldeburgh to Seaford, it was intended to guard the strategically important Harwich Harbour from French invasion. Its compact, concentric design reflects the military engineering of the time: thick brick walls, a surrounding moat, and a layout that maximised defensive firepower while minimising blind spots.From Barracks to Community Museum
After its active military role ended, the Redoubt served as barracks into the 20th century. By the 1920s, the surrounding land was sold for housing, and the fort itself fell into disrepair. Saved from demolition by the Harwich Society in the late 20th century, it was painstakingly restored by volunteers and reopened as a museum. Today, it houses a collection of large guns, military uniforms, local artefacts, and an audio‑visual display that brings its story to life. The restoration reflects decades of community effort, turning a neglected relic into a living piece of Harwich’s maritime and military heritage.Exploring the Redoubt Today
Visitors walk through the fort’s compact but layered interior, climbing to the ramparts for views over Harwich and the busy shipping lanes of the harbour. Inside, the museum displays original cannons, period weapons, and exhibits on the fort’s construction, garrison life, and later uses. The 14 rooms and chambers offer a tangible sense of life in a Napoleonic coastal defence: cramped quarters, storage vaults, and gun positions that once bristled with firepower. Passionate volunteer guides often share anecdotes and local legends, including tales of French prisoners of war helping with construction and the fort’s role in later conflicts.Events and Seasonal Life
The Redoubt is more than a static museum; it’s a venue for living history. During the warmer months, the site hosts battle re‑enactments, shanty festivals, ghost hunts, and beer festivals, drawing both locals and visitors. These events transform the fort into a lively stage for period dress, cannon firings, and maritime music, offering a vivid glimpse into its past. Even outside events, the grounds and surrounding paths make it a pleasant spot for a coastal walk, with sea breezes and views that connect the fort to the wider landscape of the Essex coast.Practical Visitor Experience
The fort is open seasonally from late spring to early autumn, plus year‑round on Sundays, with hours subject to volunteer availability. Entry is modestly priced, and the site includes a small kiosk serving drinks, ice creams, and souvenirs. Dogs are welcome on leads in the grounds, making it a relaxed outing for pet owners. Families find it engaging, especially for children drawn to the cannons and the idea of soldiers manning the ramparts. A visit typically takes an hour or two, allowing time to explore the museum, climb the walls, and enjoy the harbour views before continuing along the maritime heritage trail.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - Sutton Hoo
17.3 km
Explore Sutton Hoo, an iconic archaeological site revealing the secrets of the Anglo-Saxon era in stunning natural surroundings.
English Heritage - Orford Castle
23.7 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views of Orford Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in the heart of England's picturesque countryside.
Colchester War Memorial
27.0 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Natural History Museum
27.0 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Middle Mill Weir
27.1 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Roman Theatre
27.2 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Balkerne Gate
27.7 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Framlingham Castle
31.6 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Framlingham Castle, a quintessential English heritage site in the heart of Suffolk.
Eye Castle
43.1 km
Discover the historic Eye Castle, a medieval gem in Eye, England, offering stunning architecture and rich history for curious travelers.
Southwold Museum
50.4 km
Explore the captivating heritage of Southwold at the Southwold Museum, a treasure trove of local history and culture.
Southwold Lighthouse
50.5 km
Discover the historical Southwold Lighthouse, a maritime landmark offering stunning views and a rich cultural experience on the English coast.
SOUTHWOLD OLD DRILL HALL
50.6 km
Historic Edwardian drill hall in Southwold, blending military heritage with vibrant community life.
Southwold Beach
50.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Southwold Beach, a quintessential British seaside destination with vibrant beach huts, stunning views, and charming attractions.
Under The Pier Show Southwold Pier
51.0 km
Experience the magic of nostalgia and seaside fun at Under The Pier Show in Southwold, where unique amusements await every visitor.
Southwold Pier
51.0 km
Discover the enchanting Southwold Pier, a charming seaside destination filled with fun, food, and stunning coastal views.
Unmissable attractions to see
A House For Essex
7.9 km
Experience Essex’s spirit through Grayson Perry’s extraordinary living artwork and holiday home on the serene River Stour estuary.
Naze Tower
8.6 km
Historic 1720 maritime tower with panoramic coastal views, museum, art gallery, and rich fossil cliffs at Walton-on-the-Naze.
Sailmakers Shopping Centre
15.9 km
A compact, accessible shopping centre in Ipswich town centre blending high street brands with local culture and essential services.
Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape
18.6 km
Explore 441 km² of tranquil estuaries, ancient heaths, and forests in Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape, a haven for wildlife and history.
Clacton Pier
19.6 km
Experience thrilling rides, family fun, and classic seaside charm at Clacton Pier, Europe's largest pleasure pier on the Essex coast.
Wyvernwood
21.5 km
Step into Wyvernwood’s magical kingdom for a family adventure filled with dragons, fairies, and enchanting play in Essex’s captivating outdoor theme park.
Jaywick Martello Tower
23.1 km
Historic Napoleonic tower turned vibrant arts and heritage centre with stunning coastal views and community events.
Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park
24.9 km
Discover vibrant habitats and rich wildlife at Fingringhoe Wick, a transformed nature reserve with stunning estuary views near Colchester.
Cudmore Grove Country Park
26.1 km
Explore Mersea Island’s scenic coastal park with sandy beaches, historic fort ruins, wildlife habitats, and family-friendly trails and playgrounds.
High Woods Country Park
26.2 km
Explore 150 hectares of ancient woodland, lakes, and wildflower meadows in Colchester’s award-winning High Woods Country Park.
National Trust - Bourne Mill
26.8 km
Step back in time at Bourne Mill, a picturesque Elizabethan watermill blending historic charm with tranquil gardens in the heart of Colchester.
English Heritage - St Botolph's Priory
27.1 km
Explore St Botolph's Priory in Colchester, where history, architecture, and tranquility converge in a breathtaking heritage site.
Colchester Castle
27.1 km
Explore Europe’s largest Norman keep, built on Roman temple ruins, with immersive history, interactive exhibits, and stunning views in Colchester’s Castle Park.
St John's Abbey Gate
27.3 km
Explore the beautifully preserved 15th-century gatehouse that stands as the last remnant of Colchester’s historic Benedictine St John’s Abbey.
Lion Walk Shopping Centre
27.3 km
Colchester’s vibrant shopping heart blending historic charm with high street brands and diverse dining experiences.
Essential places to dine
The Eaterie @ the Salthouse Harbour Hotel
15.1 km
Modern British dining with fresh local seafood and stunning marina views at Ipswich’s stylish Salthouse Harbour Hotel.
The Unruly Pig
18.4 km
Award-winning Suffolk gastropub blending historic charm with innovative British cuisine and local flavors in a vibrant, quirky setting.
Talbooth Restaurant
21.9 km
Award-winning Modern British fine dining on the River Stour, where 19th-century charm meets contemporary culinary excellence.
Harvester Stanway Colchester
32.0 km
Casual family-friendly British bar & grill in Colchester offering fresh, flavorful meals from breakfast to dinner in a relaxed setting.
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
37.5 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
The Great House Hotel and Restaurant
38.5 km
Historic elegance and exquisite dining converge in the heart of Lavenham’s medieval Market Place.
Scutchers
42.1 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic village of Long Melford, blending exceptional cuisine with warm, polished service.
The Bull Auberge
42.8 km
Elegant 5-star countryside inn in Suffolk offering exquisite local cuisine, luxurious rooms, and warm, attentive hospitality.
Anchor at Walberswick
48.5 km
A warm, Arts & Crafts coastal pub and inn in Walberswick serving fresh local seafood and seasonal dishes with a welcoming village charm.
Sole Bay Fish Company
49.1 km
Rustic harbour-side seafood eatery in Southwold serving fresh fish, classic fish and chips, and indulgent shellfish platters with estuary views.
Le ROC at the Harbour
49.2 km
Charming French bistro on Southwold harbour, serving fresh Mediterranean-influenced dishes with stunning sunset views and warm, dog-friendly hospitality.
The Sail Loft
49.6 km
A vibrant seaside restaurant and hotel offering fresh seafood, rustic charm, and stunning sea views in the heart of Southwold.
Al Fresco Dining
49.9 km
Enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals in the charming open-air setting of The Common, Southwold’s beloved al fresco dining spot.
Clubhouse Bar & Catering
49.9 km
Cozy dining on Southwold’s Common with fresh local flavors and warm, attentive service in a charming coastal setting.
Red Lion
50.3 km
Historic 17th-century pub on South Green offering local ales, home-cooked food, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heady's Hobbies & Gifts
10.4 km
Discover creativity and charm at Heady's Hobbies & Gifts, Walton on the Naze’s family-run craft shop with unique handmade treasures and inspiring workshops.
Essential Vintage
15.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion classics in the heart of Ipswich’s charming Eagle Street.
Quirky Old Stuff
15.9 km
Discover a whimsical world of antiques and vintage curiosities in Manningtree’s most eclectic shop, where every item tells a story.
The Emporium
17.1 km
Discover unique gifts, exquisite candles, and enchanting perfumes at The Emporium in Holland-on-Sea’s charming Kings Avenue.
Rocks & Rubies
27.1 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
Bestdays Vintage
27.4 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
34.5 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
The Lovely Shop
47.9 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Emporium on the Quay
47.9 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
The Emporium Maldon
47.9 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
The Parish Lantern
48.6 km
Charming gift shop and tea room where village life unfolds over freshly prepared food and curated treasures.
Denny Of Southwold Ltd
50.3 km
Historic tailoring and classic British style meet at Denny Of Southwold Ltd, Southwold’s enduring clothing shop since 1851.
Huus
50.3 km
A Southwold homewares shop showcasing Scandinavian-inspired furniture, lighting and accessories in a bright, airy former bank building.
Chapmans of Southwold
50.3 km
Discover unique gifts and Southwold souvenirs at Chapmans, a charming High Street shop blending tradition with local spirit.
Vintage Store
50.3 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky vintage finds at WOW Vintage, Southwold’s beloved emporium of retro charm and unique collectibles.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Wise Monkeys
27.2 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
43.9 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
The Bell Inn
48.7 km
Historic 600-year-old coastal pub in Walberswick with cozy fires, local Suffolk fare, sea views, and dog-friendly charm.
The Queen Victoria Public House
48.8 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Duchies
50.4 km
Duchies offers exceptional breakfasts and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed café setting on Southwold’s historic High Street.
The Box
50.4 km
Experience the delightful flavors of The Box, a charming bakery in Southwold offering freshly baked goods and a cozy atmosphere.
Saxon King
58.7 km
A cozy British pub in Southend-on-Sea blending historic charm with hearty classics and family-friendly warmth.
The Exchange Bar & Kitchen
58.8 km
A vibrant grill and live music pub in Southend-on-Sea offering classic British fare with a modern twist and a lively atmosphere.
Cow and Telescope
59.6 km
A lively Southend-on-Sea pub renowned for live music, great beers, and a welcoming atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
Bart's Bar
59.7 km
Discover Bart's Bar in Southend-on-Sea, where refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere meet for an unforgettable night out.
Boom Battle Bar Southend-on-Sea
59.7 km
An energetic bar in Southend’s Victoria Shopping Centre offering augmented reality games, cocktails, and a lively social scene for unforgettable group fun.
Slug & Lettuce - Southend
59.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Southend-on-Sea offering stylish vibes, bottomless brunch, and vibrant social events by the seaside.
Popworld Southend
59.8 km
Popworld Southend: Where nostalgic pop hits meet vibrant nightlife for unforgettable party experiences in Essex.
SWITCH
59.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and games lounge in Southend-on-Sea blending creative drinks with interactive fun and social gaming.
The Dickens
60.0 km
Lively pub and nightclub in Southend-on-Sea offering karaoke, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all-night fun.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Supper Club
15.6 km
Lively nightclub in Ipswich offering great drinks, music, and a vibrant social scene from afternoon until early morning.
The Club
15.9 km
Experience Ipswich’s vibrant nightlife at The Club, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere come alive in the city centre.
Trilogy Nightclub
27.3 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
27.7 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Carbon Nightclub
33.9 km
Experience Stowmarket’s lively nightlife at Carbon Nightclub, a modern venue pulsing with music and weekend energy.
Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club
50.3 km
Experience the local social scene at Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club, where community spirit and friendly faces await.
St Edmund's Hall
50.6 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at St Edmund's Hall in Southwold, where culture and scenic beauty meet for an unforgettable experience.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
50.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit of Sole Bay Bowls Club in Southwold, where leisure and tradition blend seamlessly.
Flex Nightclub
51.9 km
Lively late-night nightclub in Bury St. Edmunds offering dance music, bar service, and a bustling atmosphere with a local crowd.
The Lounge Jazz Club
58.2 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
59.5 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
59.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
MYST Club
60.1 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Foundation
60.2 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
60.2 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
