Portland Castle, Dorset


1st June 2017

No good picture unfortunately the best picture of the castle front would have to be taken from the sea!

 1539/1540 - Castle built as part of essential anti-invasion measures, ordered by Henry VIII
1584-1586 - Due to the threat of Spanish invasion, the castle underwent improvements
1588 - Sir Walter Raleigh became captain of the castle and on recognising its potential, saw the need for effective armament
Civil War - Isle of Portland was Royalist
1642 - Parliamentarians took control of the island and castle
1643 - Royalists retook the castle disguised as Parliamentary forces
1644 - a four month siege of the castle, Royalists Vs Parliamentarians however the castle remained a Royalist stronghold
1653 - The castle had a key role in protecting anchorage during the first Anglo-Dutch battle which occurred just off Portland 
1655-1657 - castle used as a prison after the Battle of Worcester
1660 - Charles II on the throne, the garrison at Portland castle is reduced
1702 - castle suffered further garrison reductions and faced decline
1800s - Due to the threat of Napoleon, armament at the castle was increased, however this was the last time the castle would be armed
1816 - War with France over, castle renovated after becoming very dilapidated 
WWI - castle used as an ordnance store
WWII - Portland saw much activity and involvement during the war and the castle was used as a living quarters and office for UK and US personnel 

 The castle reminded us a lot of St Mawes and Pendennis castle -  the "typical" Henry VIII castle. Several rooms to explore and lots of information in some of them. Some rooms also have tudor games set up too for you to play. Lovely views out to see and a pretty garden too. Would as usual recommend the audio tour. 

 Owned by English Heritage
Designated car park
Shop / Tea room / Toilets
Guidebook and audio tour available, several information panels too
No dogs allowed

N & K


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