More information : (SX 88645024) A gun battery called 'Lamberds's Bulwark', a part of the armament of Dartmouth Castle (SX 85 SE 16), was constructed in the 16th century on the cliff top above the bathing beach.
In 1747, when it was known as 'Maiden Fort', the battery was rebuilt in stone, for twelve guns in two tiers. There was already a line of communication between the battery and the castle, protected by a masonry wall.
In 1861 a strong battery which came to be known as 'the old battery' was built on the site of the Maiden Fort, mounting five 64 - pounder guns, three in casements, with magazines behind them and some accomodation for a garrison, and two more guns in open battery above. In 1940 a brick position for a 4.7 inch gun was built on one of the two upper embrasures and platforms.
The old battery was taken into Guardianship in 1955. It is now used as a restaurant and the interior is not open to the public. Some early masonry on the landward side of the building, and on the point, is all that remains of the Maiden Fort. The small battlemented structure of 1940 survives, and one of the original 64 - pounder guns has been mounted in the other embrasure. (For general description of Dartmouth defences, see SX 85 SE 51). (1-2)
The site is now in the care of English Heritage. The WWII emplacement is a ticket office. The battery is displayed as it might have been in the mid 19th century. (3) |