Please note, tickets were kindly gifted on this occasion, however we have very much enjoyed visits previously too 🙂

For a truly unique day out with the family in Weymouth that is not only stunning, but also affordable, I can’t recommend Nothe Fort enough.

We love visiting Weymouth for its stunning beach, family fun, and beautiful coastal walks, and Lily has always loved our trips there, so a trip to Nothe Fort is a great way to compliment any holiday with something truly different and so close to town.

It really does have everything you need for a day out for all ages and even in the peak of summer (we were visiting mid-August) it was peaceful, spacious, and enjoyable.

Exploring Nothe Fort

Nothe Fort itself is a historic sea fort built between 1860-1872, and is in such a breathtaking location, with stunning views across the Jurassic Coast, Weymouth beach and Portland.

You can find plenty of fascinating history here through the museum and artifacts, both indoors and out, including interactive exhibits, artillery and wartime displays. Lily amazed me by how fascinated she was by the scale models in the main entrance as they had made them so interesting!

You can also explore the three levels of outdoor areas, which are all accessible, where you are able to enjoy the extensive views across the harbour and get a true feel for how the fort would have operated. Are you brave enough to enter the ghost tunnel? That’s the question!

If you’re lucky enough, you may even be able to catch one of their fantastic events at the Fort too!

Family-friendly visits

Lily’s favourite thing to do, aside from exploring the grounds and what she could see from the top of the Fort, was to search for Warren the Mouse, hidden around the castle. She squealed with delight every time she spotted one hidden around the Fort!

Before you visit, you can check out the ForT Kids section of the website here for some fun interactive activities and information.

Accessibility

Nothe Fort has accessible access to most of the fort, the different levels through a modern lift, as well as accessible access to the cafe. There are areas within the fort that are restricted due to the width, however those with restricted mobility are still able to enjoy all levels of the fort and access two disabled toilets on site.

Food & Drink – the cafe at Nothe Fort

You are able to bring a picnic to enjoy on the tables and benches situated over the Ramparts, overlooking the entrance to Weymouth Harbour. 

There is also the beautiful Fort View cafe with indoor and outdoor seating available as well as hot/cold food and drinks. The cafe is also available to those who aren’t visiting the fort itself, so a great place to meet with family or friends!

There is currently a one-way system in place for entry/exit. We visited in peak summer and it was so peaceful!

Toilet facilities

There are toilet facilities as well as disabled toilet facilities on site.

Gift Shop

You can also enjoy the gift shop when you visit Nothe Fort including pocket money gifts, educational books and activities, as well as other beautiful items to remember your visit by.

Covid safety changes

The team have worked hard to put in safety measures following reopening, however even in peak summer we still found it was very quiet and such a safe place to visit. You queue at the entrance to get in and they are counting visitors to keep track of numbers.

You’ll find many clear one-way systems around the Fort and tunnels as well as in the cafe, and sanitiser stations throughout. You’re also required to wear masks in the indoor areas of the museum.

For full details on the changes to expect, click here.

Conclusion

We had a fantastic time at Nothe Fort once again and would really recommend it to individuals as well as families with children of all ages. You can even take your dog along!

There really is so much to do and explore, with plenty to learn, as well as some of the most incredible views across the Jurassic Coast.

The staff were all so friendly and helpful, the cafe was lovely, and we felt so safe the whole time. Lily really enjoyed herself and you could easily spend many hours there enjoying everything on offer.

How do you get there?

Address & Postcode for Nothe Fort: Barrack Rd, Weymouth DT4 8UF

You are able to park in Nothe Gardens (council run car parks) or can walk from town following the harbour.

Or you can follow the map here:

For an even more special trip, you can take the harbour ferry and then follow the path up to Nothe Gardens, however this route does involve steps so is not accessible.

Ticket prices (correct as of August 2020)

You can book online here or pay when you arrive.

• Adult £8
• Senior Citizen £7
• Children under 5 FREE
• Children 5 to 16 (Inclusive) Only £2
• Family: 2 Adults + 2 Children £18 / 1 Adult + 2 Children £10

For more information on Nothe Fort, click here.

For our review of Haven Littlesea Weymouth on their Haven Hideaway breaks, click here.

If you’d like to find out more information about things to do in Weymouth, we find the Love Weymouth website really useful – click here to check it out, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram for some inspiration!