Newhaven Fort welcomes royal visit to commemorate £7.5m restoration

His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester visited Newhaven Fort on Thursday to unveil a commemorative plaque celebrating the completion of its £7.5 million restoration.

During his visit, The Duke embarked on a guided tour highlighting key restoration efforts, including the fort's brand-new adventure playground, restored casemates and enhanced exhibitions.

The Duke, who is a keen architect and Patron of the Fortress Study Group, also visited the newly-restored gun emplacements, which offer panoramic views across the Sussex coastline.

Among those in attendance were Cllr Lesley Boniface, Chair of Lewes District Council, alongside key members of the restoration project team.

The 19th-century fort, the largest defensive structure ever built in Sussex, reopened in February following a year-long restoration.

The project introduced several exciting new features, including a 1970s-themed escape room, which is set to open in April 2025. Previously inaccessible areas, such as the Battery Observation Post, have been opened to the public for the first time, while the Romney Hut in the parade square has been re-clad and refurbished to serve as a versatile event space for hire.

Following the restoration, all standard entry tickets will be valid for 12 months during seasonal opening hours, offering unlimited return visits throughout the year.

Funded by UK Government, the restoration was delivered by Pilbeam Construction, with funding secured by Lewes District Council.

To find out more about Newhaven Fort or to book tickets, please visit: www.newhavenfort.org.uk

Ends

Editors notes

Built in the 19th century, Newhaven Fort is the largest work of defence ever built in Sussex and is the last in a series of coastal defences built on the cliffs overlooking Seaford Bay, which date back to the Iron Age.

Having undergone a major £7.5 million restoration in 2024, Newhaven Fort reopens on 15 February 2025, inviting visitors to explore the rich social history of Sussex and a vibrant tapestry of stories. From the romance of bygone eras to the resilience of wartime heroes, every step through its historic site reveals a chapter of the county’s past. Visitors can marvel at panoramic views, delve into captivating new exhibitions and let the kids play in the fort’s new adventure playground. From families seeking adventure to history enthusiasts and those craving nostalgia, Newhaven Fort promises a day of discovery and wonder for everyone. Dogs are welcome and parking on site is free.

For more information please visit: www.newhavenfort.org.uk