The southern approaches to Chatham and its dockyard were protected by five forts built between 1860 and 1900 to strengthen the 18th century fortications around the perimenter of the dockyard. Forts Horsted, Luton and Borstal are still standing, Forts Bridgewood and Darland have been demolished. They were all built to a similar five sided, low level design and surrounded by a deep dry ditch but differed in size with Fort Horsted the largest. Access into the forts was through a single, well protected, gateway.
Fort Bridgewood
The site was in use by the army until 1970
but was then demolished in 1975.
1890
Fort Luton
Overlooking the Luton Valley, it was in use by the army until 1961
and recently as a model museum. Opening status unknown.
1876 - 92
On Magpie Hall Road, off the A230.
Fort Borstal
Built on high ground overlooking the western approach to Chatham.
Derelict and in poor condition from the outside. Private.
1875 -85
On the west side of Borstal. next to the prison, overlooking the M2.
Fort Horsted
The approaches are very overgrown. Building work in progress (2003). Private.
