Portland Castle, Castletown (Dorset)

Visit Portland Castle to discover one of Henry VIII's finest coastal forts and enjoy a great family day out.

Summary

16th century buildings
19th century buildings
No smoking
Guided tours
Learning facilities
Audio guide
Free car parking (on site)

Food and Drinks

Tea Room

Introduction

Visit Portland Castle to discover one of Henry VIII's finest coastal forts and enjoy a great family day out. Journey back through 450 years of history - come face to face with the King in the Great Hall, explore the Tudor kitchen, armoury and gun platforms, then relax in the Captain’s Tearoom.

History to the present day

The history of this fortress, which overlooks Portland harbour, is diverse and fascinating. Built by Henry VIII to defend the anchorage against possible French and Spanish invasion, its squat appearance is typical of the artillery forts built in the early 1540s.

Unusually for a fortress of this period, the castle has seen much interior alteration, though the exterior remains largely unchanged. It first witnessed serious fighting during the Civil War, when it was seized by both Parliamentarians and Royalists.

It became a Seaplane Station during World War I, and was in the forefront of the D-Day preparations which helped to end World War II.

Grounds and gardens

The Governor's Garden, designed by Christopher Bradley-Hole as part of the Contemporary Heritage Garden series, contains an impressive circular amphitheatre made from local Portland stone, with two-level seating for about 200 people. This perfectly sheltered spot is a great place to relax and enjoy the dramatic sea and harbour views.

Other facilities

NB: Regret dogs are not permitted in the castle except "assistance dogs"

Toilets: Accessible WC. Shop: with level access.

Refreshments: Tearoom open all day, (variable closing in October). Snacks also available. Picnics welcome in grounds.

Access to castle and Captain's House: Ground floor is level in the castle apart from steps to get to the gun room. Narrow doorways in Captain's House.

Special audio tour and flip-book for those unable to access upper floors.

Parking: Disabled parking 30m from entrance. Level tarmac path to castle.

Visually Impaired Visitors: Cannon, cannon balls, bas-relief sculptures to touch. Braille and tactile signs on all displays.

Hearing Impaired Visitors: Audio tour with hearing loop included in admission price. Script also available. Audio tour included in admission price.

Education Base.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Portland Castle, Castletown, Dorset, , United Kingdom

Road Access: Overlooking Portland Harbour in Castletown, Isle of Portland

Train Access: Weymouth 4 1⁄2 miles

Bus Access: First 1, 501 from Weymouth (passing close to Weymouth railway station)

Opening Times:

April 2011 to March 2012

1 Apr-30 Jun 10am-5pm daily
1 Jul-31 Aug 10am-6pm daily
1-30 Sep 10am-5pm daily
1-31 Oct 10am -4pm daily
1 Nov-31 Mar CLOSED

2011 Prices:

Adult: £4.30

Children: £2.60 (5-15yrs)

Concession: £3.90

Family Ticket: £11.20 (2 adults + 3 children)

Photographs courtesy of English Heritage Photo Library.