Redoubt Fortress & Military Museum

Redoubt Fortress in Eastbourne is one of the most striking coastal defences in East Sussex, a massive circular stronghold built in 1805 during the Napoleonic Wars. Designed to protect the shoreline from a potential French invasion, its thick brick walls and deep moat made it a formidable piece of military engineering. Although it never saw battle, the fortress later served as a base for troops during both World Wars, giving it a long and varied service history. Inside, visitors can explore the casemates, a series of vaulted rooms that once stored ammunition, supplies and living quarters. Their cool, echoing interiors reveal how soldiers adapted to life within a fortified ring. The parade ground, open to the sky, forms the heart of the structure and offers a dramatic sense of scale. The museum galleries trace Britain’s military past through uniforms, weapons, medals and personal stories. Exhibits highlight local regiments, wartime innovation and the everyday experiences of soldiers stationed at the fort. Seasonal displays and hands‑on activities add depth for families and history enthusiasts.