Portland Castle — A Tudor Fort on Dorset’s Coast

A Tudor Fortress with Wide Sea Views

Overlooking Portland Harbour, Portland Castle is one of the best-preserved Tudor artillery forts in England.
Built in the 1540s as part of Henry VIII’s coastal defences, it was designed to guard this strategic stretch of the Channel.
Today, its curved gun platforms, stone interiors, and calm waterside setting make it a compelling Dorset landmark.

It’s a compact fort with impressive history and atmosphere.

A Castle Built for Cannon

Henry VIII ordered Portland Castle as part of his national defence plan.
Its rounded walls and thick stone were shaped specifically to withstand heavy artillery.
However, the fort later found new uses, including service during the English Civil War and even both World Wars.

Therefore, Portland Castle reflects centuries of shifting threats and military innovation.

Exploring Portland Castle
1. The Great Hall

Inside, the Great Hall once served meals to gunners and officers.
Today, it features displays that show how Tudor soldiers lived and worked.
In addition, the lofty ceiling adds grandeur unexpected in a small fortress.

2. The Gun Platforms

Curved bastions overlook the harbour, showing how cannon once targeted enemy ships.
You can walk these platforms and enjoy sweeping views of the coastline.
Moreover, the shape of the fort demonstrates Henry VIII’s early understanding of artillery warfare.

3. The Captain’s House and Gardens

Beside the fort stands the Captain’s House, now part of the visitor experience.
Its small garden offers a quiet place to sit and enjoy the sea air.
Furthermore, the house reveals how officers lived more comfortably than the ordinary garrison.

Learn more at the English Heritage website

A Harbour with Naval History

Portland Harbour played a major naval role for centuries.
Warships once anchored here, and the harbour later supported the Royal Navy during both World Wars.
Additionally, the castle’s location offers views of modern sailing and water sports, blending old and new coastal life.

It’s not just a fort — it’s part of a deep maritime landscape.

Visiting Portland Castle
How to Get There

Address: Liberty Road, Castletown, Portland DT5 1AZ

By Car: Parking available on site

By Train: Weymouth Station (then local bus to Portland)

By Bus: Regular services to Castletown

Opening Hours & Admission

Open seasonally

Entry fee applies; free for English Heritage members

Facilities

Café

Toilets

Gift shop

Harbour-view seating

Nearby Attractions

Portland Bill Lighthouse — Dramatic coastal views

Tout Quarry Sculpture Park — Art set within old quarries

Weymouth Harbour — Historic waterfront nearby

Sandsfoot Castle — Tudor ruins across the bay

Together, these sites form the Portland & Weymouth Coastal History Trail.

Why Visit Portland Castle?

The Portland Castle experience offers:

One of Henry VIII’s best-preserved forts

Views across Portland Harbour

Engaging indoor displays and outdoor areas

A compact, family-friendly visit

Whether you enjoy Tudor history, coastal views, or military architecture, Portland Castle delivers an informative and relaxing day out.
It’s not just a fort — it’s a Tudor stronghold shaped by sea and strategy.