Fort Darnet is set to become a new visitor attraction.
The attraction is located in the River Medway, Kent.
The fort was built between 1870 and 1872.
Fort Darnet is located on the River Medway in Kent.
Fort Darnet is set to become a new visitor attraction. Located in the River Medway in Kent, it is a striking Victorian sea fort standing on its own island. Once built to defend the nation, it will soon welcome visitors. Although an opening date has not yet been confirmed, here’s what we do know.
Built between 1870 and 1872, the fort was originally designed to house 100 soldiers and was used for military training and gunnery practice. Today, it is set to begin an exciting new chapter. The fort’s new owner, Mick Jennings, plans to transform Fort Darnet into a unique events venue, with ideas ranging from live music performances and ghost hunts to wellbeing retreats and meditation sessions. Plus, the island’s incredible acoustics have already attracted interest from musicians.
After visiting a sea fort, Mick fell in love with the idea. Speaking to the BBC, he recalls that he told his wife: “We’ve got to have a fort – it’s something we have to bid on.” He added, “The magical thing is when you come here, you can’t get that feeling until you are on an island. The views are eerie and magical – it’s got all those things.”
Medway Council has welcomed the proposals and supports the plans that encourage sustainable tourism while protecting the island’s wildlife and surrounding river habitats. Before any events can take place, safety remains the top priority. Mick is determined to restore the site by draining flooded areas, repairing dangerous sections and making the fort safe for future visitors.
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Where: Fort Dartnet, River Medway, Medway, Kent
Contact: www.medway.gov.uk