Nothe Fort is one of Britain’s best-preserved Victorian coastal forts and one of Weymouth‘s most popular visitor attractions. Standing on the Nothe Peninsula between Weymouth Harbour and Portland Harbour, the fort was built during the 19th century to defend the strategically important naval anchorage at Portland from possible attack.
Today, visitors can explore atmospheric underground tunnels, military exhibitions, restored gun emplacements and historic rooms while enjoying spectacular views across Weymouth Bay, Portland Harbour and the Isle of Portland. The surrounding Nothe Gardens and nearby Stone Pier make it easy to combine a visit to the fort with one of Weymouth’s most enjoyable coastal walks.
Whether you’re interested in military history, coastal scenery or simply looking for one of the best viewpoints in Weymouth, Nothe Fort offers an enjoyable day out for visitors of all ages.
Website: https://nothefort.org.uk
Things to See and Do at Nothe Fort
Explore the Underground Tunnels
One of the highlights of visiting Nothe Fort is exploring its network of underground passages. These brick-lined tunnels once connected ammunition stores, magazines and living quarters, allowing soldiers to move safely around the fort during times of conflict.
Today the tunnels have been carefully restored and contain fascinating displays explaining the fort’s history, military technology and the lives of the soldiers stationed here.
Historic Gun Emplacements
The fort’s gun positions overlook the entrance to Portland Harbour and provide an insight into how the site defended one of Britain’s most important naval bases.
Although the original weapons have long since disappeared, restored artillery pieces and interpretation panels help visitors understand how the fort operated during the Victorian period and through both World Wars.
Military Museum
Nothe Fort contains a variety of exhibitions covering more than 150 years of military history. Displays include uniforms, weapons, photographs, equipment and personal stories illustrating the changing role of the fort from its construction in the 1860s through to the Cold War.
Interactive exhibits and family-friendly displays make the museum suitable for visitors of all ages.
Spectacular Coastal Views
The fort occupies one of the finest viewpoints in Weymouth. From the ramparts, visitors can enjoy panoramic views across Weymouth Harbour, Portland Harbour, Chesil Beach, the Isle of Portland and Weymouth Bay.
It’s also one of the best places in the town to watch sailing events, fishing boats and cruise vessels entering and leaving the harbour, making it a favourite location for photographers throughout the year.
Nothe Gardens
Surrounding the fort, Nothe Gardens provide a peaceful setting overlooking both Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour. The gardens feature mature trees, open lawns and well-maintained pathways, making them a popular place for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
The elevated position offers some of the finest coastal views in Weymouth, while benches throughout the gardens provide plenty of opportunities to relax and watch sailing boats, fishing vessels and pleasure craft entering and leaving the harbour.
Stone Pier
A short walk from the fort leads to Stone Pier, which protects the entrance to Weymouth Harbour. It’s one of the best places to watch boats passing through the harbour entrance and enjoy uninterrupted views across Weymouth Bay towards the Isle of Portland.
The pier is popular with anglers, photographers and visitors simply looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the sea views. Nearby you’ll also find the Weymouth RNLI Lifeboat Station, where the volunteer crew launch to emergencies along the Dorset coast.
Events at Nothe Fort
Throughout the year, Nothe Fort hosts a varied programme of events including historical re-enactments, living history weekends, family activities, exhibitions and seasonal celebrations. During the summer months, the fort’s grounds also provide a spectacular setting for outdoor performances and community events.
Special activities are often organised during school holidays, making the fort a popular destination for families as well as history enthusiasts. Details of forthcoming events can be found on the fort’s official website.
Visitor Information
Opening Times (2026)
- 28 March – 1 November: Open daily, 10:00am – 4:00pm
- Fort View Café: Open daily, 10:30am – 3:30pm
- 2 November 2026 – 13 February 2027: Closed for annual maintenance.
Admission Prices (2026)
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | £11.00 |
| Concession* | £9.50 |
| Child (5–16) | £4.50 |
| Under 5 | Free |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | £26.50 |
| Small Family (1 adult + 2 children) | £15.50 |
*Concessions are available for visitors aged 65 and over, students, serving military personnel and veterans.
The Fort View Café is open to both visitors and non-visitors, making it an excellent place to enjoy refreshments while taking in panoramic views across Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour.
Nothe Fort is around a 15-minute walk from Weymouth town centre and harbour. During the main visitor season, the Historic Rowing Ferry provides a convenient shortcut across the harbour from Custom House Quay to the Nothe, avoiding the longer walk via Weymouth Town Bridge.