Eastbourne Redoubt is a circular Napoleonic fortress on the eastern seafront, between the pier and Sovereign Harbour. A dry moat, a ring of casemates, and guns covering the beach. It is the largest surviving coastal redoubt of its type in Britain and gives you a different, lower angle on the same Airbourne display line.
Built between 1804 and 1812 as part of the same invasion scare that produced the Wish Tower and the Martello chain. The garrison and guns were meant to stop a landing on the eastern beach. It later housed a military museum — The Collection / Redoubt Fortress — with opening hours that change by season, so check before you walk.
During Airbourne
Fifteen minutes east of the pier along the prom. You are still on the display line, with more space than the Lawns and a fortress to poke around in the gaps. Combine it with a walk on to the harbour if the flying has finished.
Worth knowing
- A quieter stretch of the same show if the Lawns feel like a crush.
- Museum hours are not Airbourne hours. Look them up the night before.
- Easy add-on after the pier, or on the walk out to the harbour.
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