Fort Cumberland

Fort Cumberland, a pentagonal artillery fort on England’s south coast, was built to defend Portsmouth’s Royal Navy Dockyard by preventing enemy landings in Langstone Harbour. Originally constructed in 1747 under the Duke of Cumberland, it featured an irregular star-shaped earthwork design. By 1785, it was rebuilt in masonry on a larger scale, incorporating bastions and casemated ordnance.

In the late 19th century, the fort underwent modifications to accommodate advanced artillery. It became the Royal Marine Artillery headquarters in 1859 and served as a military base well into the 20th century. During World War II, it sustained damage in a German air raid.

Fort Cumberland was designated an 'Scheduled monument' in 1964, Listed Building – Grade II* in 1969 and transferred to English Heritage in 1975. It now hosts archaeological research facilities, veterans' charities, and The Portsmouth Distillery Co. Guided tours offer insights into its historical significance.

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Source

• Text: TracesofWar
• Photos: Tim Sheerman-Chase