Drop Redoubt, Dover

Located on Dover's Western Heights, the Drop Redoubt is part of a fortification built to protect Dover from invaders. It is one of two forts on Western Heights; the other fort is the Citadel.

Construction of this fort began during the Napoleonic Wars, between 1804 to 1808. Further works were deemed necessary in 1859 to provide improved defenses after an invasion scare. Surrounding the Drop Redoubt is a deep pentagonal ditch. The fort includes a soldier's barracks, gun rooms, a guardhouse, a jail cell, and officer's quarters with fireplaces.

The ruins of a Roman Pharos, a lighthouse dating from the 2nd century AD, stand at the top of the Redoubt. The remains of the lighthouse foundations are on view in the Victorian-era officer's quarters below. The Bredenstone is a name given to this ruin by the locals.

The Drop Redoubt fort is a remarkable hillside structure. Tours are available to see the interior and learn some of the fascinating stories of this fortification. These tours are held on the third Sunday of each month, from April to September. From the grounds around the area of the fort are some lovely views of Dover Harbour.