Newhaven Fort stands as the largest military structure ever built in Sussex and a pioneering engineering achievement, completed in 1871 after seven years of construction using six million bricks. Built on the recommendation of the 1859 Royal Commission to defend the growing south coast harbour, the fort was groundbreaking as the first military structure in the world to utilise concrete in its construction. The fort played strategically important roles throughout both World Wars, and now operates as a comprehensive museum covering Sussex's military heritage. Exhibits showcase the Sussex and Surrey Yeomanry, Royal Observer Corps operations, and poignant displays on the Home Front experience, including a recreated 'Blitz Experience' from 1941 and displays covering the D-Day landings. The Quartermaster's former store has been transformed into engaging exhibitions, making the fort an essential destination for understanding Sussex's military and social history.
