Nothe Fort

About

About

Now open 11am – 4pm every day.

Nothe Fort is an award winning visitor attraction offering low cost entry and great value come rain or shine.

Built by the Victorians to protect Portland Harbour, Nothe Fort is one of the best preserved examples of a Palmerston fort.

The history of the fort from its construction, through two world wars, and its later use as a nuclear shelter, is explained through the many displays, exhibits and audio visual facilities located on the ramparts, gun decks and in the maze of underground passageways.

Enjoy the stunning and far-reaching views of the Jurassic Coast from the picnic areas on the ramparts. Or go below ground and take a walk through the ghost tunnel. There is plenty to excite every member of the family.

The Gift shop offers a vast range of products, including souvenirs, books, toys and games. There is also a range of locally produced preserves, drinks and biscuits.

Fort View Café, situated within the fort, is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake in this truly unique location. The café serves a fine selection of hot and cold meals using fresh and locally sourced produce, as well as catering for private functions.

However, Nothe Fort is far more than a museum and visitor attraction. It also plays a role in the community, helping to educate children on their local history through a range of educational activities for schools and colleges. The World War II Evacuee Experience for primary school children has become extremely popular and is designed to meet curriculum requirements.

Nothe Fort can also be hired out as a venue for corporate hospitality, public events, weddings and private functions all year round. There are a variety of unique rooms and locations throughout, including the terrace with stunning views over Weymouth beach.

No longer required to protect Portland Harbour, the fort was abandoned in 1956 and fell into a state of dereliction, before being taken over by the Weymouth Civic Society in 1980 and gradually restored by an army of volunteers. 40 years on from the forts reopening, it now finds itself in a similar position. Due to Covid-19, the staff and volunteers of Nothe Fort have worked tirelessly to make the fort safe for you to visit and opened again on 11th July 2020.

“We Are Open! We Are Safe!” is the new motto of Nothe Fort and new procedures have been put in place to ensure they deliver on this promise. This includes the implementation of one-way systems throughout, hand sanitiser stations and protective screens at reception.

Existing annual passes have been extended by three months and new tickets will provide free re-entry all this year… and all next year too!

No pre-booking is required.

Last admission 1 hour before closing time.