From helping Britain defend itself against French warships to a luxury hotel charging guests £700 per night – this incredible sea fortress now appears to have been left to rot
Stranded just a mile from the UK coast, this incredible granite island has taken on many life forms. Constructed in the 1860s as part of a trio of forts to defend Britain against French warships – Spitbank Sea Fort lies in the Solent on Spit Sand, 1,100m southwest of Southsea Castle in Portsmouth.
With walls around 4.5m thick at basement level, and a 2.3m thick concrete roof – the fort was installed with anti-aircraft guns during World War Two to protect nearby Portsmouth harbour against German attacks. The fortress consisted of ammunition stores, fronted brick casemates, and an iron armoured gun gallery which faced out to sea.
It homed soldiers, sergeants, and officers, up until the 1960s when it was decommissioned and turned into a museum. Then, in 2009, the circular sea fortress was built by millionaire businessman Mike Clare who reportedly spent a staggering £3.5 million refurbishing the island into a luxury hotel.
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Arms and ammunitions were removed for the venue, to make way for nine spacious bedroom suites, three bars, three restaurant areas, and spa facilities. A deluxe double room cost £700 per night, while a premier room came with an even heftier price tag of £750.
“Where better to stay when visiting Cowes Week than on your own private fortress?” stated Visit Portsmouth, the area’s official tourist board. “Want a magnificent venue for a private party where there is no chance of gatecrashers, then Spitbank Fort ticks all of the boxes.
“What about luxurious accommodation for the Isle of Wight Festival where you can party on like a rock star long into the night? As Spitbank Fort can only be reached by own boats it provides a level of privacy, peace and tranquillity that is virtually impossible to find anywhere else in the world.”
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Despite its glitz and glam, Fortbank Fort closed as a hotel in 2020 – following the Covid-19 lockdown. While travel enthusiasts have since discovered the empty fort, and claim it has been abandoned, the building was actually sold to an anonymous buyer last year.
With a hammer price of just over £1 million, Spitbank Fort was sold by Savills, who witnessed ‘global interest’ from ‘multiple buyer types’. They described the listing as an ‘unparalleled opportunity to own a former island fort transformed into self-contained private accommodation’, stating the island had potential for alternative use, subject to consent.
“Nestled in the waters of Portsmouth Harbour, this remarkable property offers a truly one-of-a-kind living experience,” Savills added. “Boasting approximately 33,000 sq. ft. of space, the fort’s historic charm harmonizes with modern amenities. Enjoy panoramic views and exclusive privacy in this secluded yet accessible waterfront retreat.”
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