About
Nothe Fort is one of the finest surviving Victorian coastal defence fortifications in Britain, a massive circular structure built between 1860 and 1872 to defend the newly created Portland Harbour and the town of Weymouth from enemy naval attack. Perched dramatically on the Nothe peninsula at the entrance to Weymouth harbour, the fort offers commanding views across the harbour, Weymouth Bay, and the Jurassic Coast, combining outstanding military heritage with one of the most spectacular locations of any museum in England.
Constructed as part of the Royal Commission on the Defences of the United Kingdom, Nothe Fort was built to mount the latest heavy artillery of the Victorian era, with its guns capable of engaging enemy warships far out to sea. The fort's design, based on the Palmerston fort model advocated by Prime Minister Lord Palmerston, features massive earthwork ramparts, deep-set cannon emplacements, and extensive underground magazines and accommodation tunnels — all of which survive in remarkably good condition.
The fort served as an active military installation through two World Wars, with its role adapting from coastal artillery to anti-aircraft defence, searchlight operations, and radar installation. The Second World War history of the fort is particularly compelling, as Weymouth was one of the principal embarkation ports for the D-Day landings of June 1944, and Nothe Fort played a key role in the security and coordination of those historic operations.
Opened as a museum in 1980 under the care of the Weymouth Civic Society, the fort has been developed into a rich heritage attraction exploring both the military history of the site and the broader social and maritime history of Weymouth. Atmospheric tunnel passages, recreated garrison rooms, and an impressive collection of military equipment and artefacts bring the fort's long history to life. Annual events including World War II living history weekends draw large crowds and create vivid impressions of life at a working military installation.
The rampart walks provide exceptional panoramic views, making a visit to Nothe Fort as much a scenic experience as a historical one. The combination of dramatic architecture, compelling history, stunning coastal scenery, and lively events programming makes Nothe Fort one of the most rewarding heritage destinations in the South West of England.
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Plan Your Visit
⏱️ Recommended Visit Duration
📅 Best Times to Visit
💡 Visitor Tips
- The underground tunnels are the most atmospheric part of the fort — take a torch if you have one, as some passages are dimly lit.
- Check the events calendar before visiting. The annual WWII weekend is spectacular but the fort is very busy — book accommodation well in advance if you plan to attend.
- The rampart views are best in the morning when the light falls on the harbour. Late afternoon can have strong westerly sun which makes viewing across the bay more difficult.
- Walk from Weymouth station along the harbour front — it takes about 15 minutes and is a lovely introduction to the town before reaching the fort.
- Children love exploring the tunnels and trying on replica military helmets and equipment. Family quizzes and trails are available at the entrance desk.
- After visiting the fort, walk around the Nothe Gardens and along the Weymouth harbourfront for lunch at one of the many waterside restaurants.
- Bring a wide-angle lens for the panoramic harbour and bay views from the ramparts. The fort's Victorian stonework also photographs beautifully in low-angle light.
- Visitors with mobility difficulties can access the ramparts and the upper level displays. Staff at the entrance can explain which areas are suitable for your needs before you pay admission.
Highlights
Discover the unique exhibits and collections at this museum.
Collections
The museum's collections focus on the military history of Nothe Fort and the broader armed forces heritage of the Weymouth and Dorset coast. Holdings include Victorian and 20th-century artillery, small arms and equipment, military uniforms and medals, D-Day related documents and photographs, and artefacts relating to the Royal Navy's historic presence at Portland Harbour.
Victorian Coastal Defence
The story of the fort's construction in the 1860s-1870s and its role in the Victorian system of coastal defence, with original artillery and engineering displays.
Two World Wars
The fort's active military service through WWI and WWII, including its role in the D-Day preparations of 1944.
The Underground Tunnels
Self-guided exploration of the fort's extensive underground magazine and accommodation network, with atmospheric recreated rooms.
Weymouth Maritime Heritage
The broader maritime history of Weymouth as a port, naval base, and bathing resort, complementing the fort's military story.
Themes
Time Periods
Current Exhibitions
No current exhibitions. Please check the museum website for updates.