Newhaven Fort welcomes royal visit

His Royal Highness, the Duke of Gloucester, visited Newhaven Fort last week to unveil a commemorative plaque celebrating the completion of the Fort’s £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 the Mayor of Newhaven, Cllr Pinky McLean-Knight, and the Chair of Lewes District Council, Cllr Lesley Boniface.

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