Welcome

The Palmerston Forts Society was formed in 1984 and brings together enthusiasts who have an active interest in nineteenth century military fortifications and associated artillery worldwide, but particularly within Hampshire, and is focussed on the ring of forts that protected Portsmouth.

The Society is based at Fort Nelson, Fareham, in one of the Great Portsdown Forts built during the 1860’s to defend Portsdown Hill from occupation by an invading army. Had an enemy been positioned on the hill, then Portsmouth harbour and dockyard would have been vulnerable to artillery fire.

Today Fort Nelson is run by Royal Armouries as their Museum of Artillery, and has recently undergone a multi-million pound redevelopment transforming it to museum for the 21st century.

All information, photographs, drawings, plans, etc., are copyright of the Palmerston Forts Society and may not be copied or shared without the express permission of the Palmerston Forts Society.

Join Us

The Palmerston Forts Society welcomes new members, so if you have an interest in joining the Society, perhaps even firing the Victorian guns, then find out more.....

> find out more

Publications

The Palmerston Forts Society publications: