By 1541 Sandsfoot Castle was complete. It was built rapidly by order of Henry VIII, along with Portland Castle, to defend this part of England’s coast against attack by the French and Spanish.
The sea and the weather have been the most effective enemies in wreaking damage on the castle. By the end of the 17th century it was becoming a ruin, its proud gun floors fallen into the sea as the cliffs below crumbled under wave and tide.
Since then, much facing stone has been removed and used in other structures, including the foundations of Weymouth’s Town Bridge, which still stands. The final insult for this unique fort came by 1930 when it was declared unsafe and closed to the public.
In 2012 Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, with the help of the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Friends of Rodwell Trail & Sandsfoot Castle, re-opened the castle to the public but however the castle and footbridge is now shut due to health and safety risks.

s〰️en

June 29, 2025

Sandsfoot Castle is a historic castle ruin on the south coast of England that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The castle was built in the 16th century by order of Henry VIII to protect the coast from possible attacks from the sea. Today, only the impressive remains of the fortress remain, exuding a romantic and historic atmosphere.

A visit to Sandsfoot Castle allows you to explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and defenses. Its waterfront location offers beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding nature. It's a great place for strolls, photos, and learning about the region's history.

The grounds are peaceful and inviting, perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone simply looking to enjoy the fresh sea air. There are also beautiful coastal paths nearby that invite further exploration.

Overall, Sandsfoot Castle is a charming historic destination that combines history, nature, and beautiful views. It is definitely worth a visit to discover the rich history of southern England and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.

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Elevation 10 m

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Location: Weymouth, Weymouth And Portland, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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