Landguard Fort is a fort at the mouth of the River Orwell outside Felixstowe, Suffolk, designed to guard the mouth of the river. It is now managed by the charity English Heritage and is open to the public.
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Felixstowe Museum
4.7
(69)
FOR ACCESSIBLE INFO READ NEAR THE BOTTOM.
I went to Languard years ago and It was great then. Took my partner recently as he had never been. I was a little worried about his legs as he suffers If he walks to much, but we had a great day and all was good.
When we got there we were greeted with a love view of the Dock. The view point just a minute from the Fort and also the nature reserve too, this is definitely a great place to come for the day. Walking up the Fort, a lovely lady met us and mentioned that some of the ground in the Fort can be rough to walk on and some bits uneven. Which is great to be made aware of. It only cost £7 each with a free map and audio guide which I thought was great.
We didn't use the audio guides a lot, as I prefer to read and take stuff in that way, but we had them if we wanted them and wanted to know more. Walking into the inside of the Fort we were met with lovely music in the background and no crowds. Me and my partner suffer with big crowds and this was perfect for us. It was a lovely morning and being able to walk round with no worry of crowds made us happy.
We went round each bit and enjoyed every second. There's plenty to see and look at and plenty to learn!.
The whole Fort was tidy and well looked after. Really clean and all the staff were really friendly and really into their jobs. We did need the toilet at one point and didn't know where they were but we found a member of staff and he let us use the portaloo. We assume the portaloos are what they use as a standard toilet facility? If so, that's absolutely fine. It's just nice knowing that toilets are available if needed.
There was a cafe nearby too. Although we didn't go in there, it did look nice.
As for accessibility. I was astounded by how much they actually catered to disabled needs. There were ramps in a lot of places and even signs stating that wheelchairs can use certain areas. They even put bright coloured tape on certain areas in buildings to make sure people don't trip or knock their heads!.
They also had a little shop. Which we did go in and buy a magent and pen. Which we always do when we visit places. I do think its sad that they have to have things that aren't related to the place just to gain more people to help with donations. But that's how it goes. I think people should definitely give more donations as this place deserves it.
Will definitely visit again! Oh and if it's going to be a cold day, wrap up warm as being near the Dock it can get cold. You get lovely views when being on top of the Fort...
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A fairly good day out. All who took part in the reenactments put so much into it and the majority of the staff were friendly, informative and welcoming. As it started to rain a little we asked a kind member of staff if we could have the table umbrella up, she happily said she'd try and get someone to lend a hand as they were so huge , it wasn't heavy rain but if it did suddenly get heavy we have to be prepared due to one of my girls SEN issues, another member of staff blurted out rudely at me that there was no point putting it up as they were sun umbrellas and wouldn't keep us dry like it was totally obvious! I replied to her that I was sorry I'd thought that an umbrella in the rain might be a good idea and that because I didn't spend every day there like she probably did I wouldn't have been aware of this 🙄 My girls loved the live Viking demonstration. We're English Heritage members so were disappointed and confused we had to pay for entry to just because it was a Viking event day as that was not advertised for members on the website or the English Heritage website but once we were there not much we could do about it. My 13 year old wanted to join in with the scavenger hunt and was looking forward to her prize, we assumed they'd be Viking themed but it was crayons,a colouring book and sweets which we felt was a bit odd and not suitable for all ages taking part. Nothing suitable for SEN children on offer either, this happens to us alot. My youngest daughter is high level Autistic with Hypermobilty, she sat in the courtyard with me instead while my other two enjoyed the day with my husband and my mum. If you need ideas for children with additional needs I'm full of them. I also noticed a health and safety issue with the top of this staircase. All the balconies have the gaps covered so no children can squeeze through and fall, top of the stairs are wide open. I saw two sets of parents grab their children walking down especially one who poked his little head through the gap as it's a clear drop. I did speak to one member of staff about it but they didn't seem fussed so I didn't speak to anyone else, I've emailed the team instead. It was a nice day for some of it but I don't think...
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Landguard Fort, located at the mouth of the River Orwell near Felixstowe, Suffolk, is one of England’s most significant coastal fortifications, with a rich history spanning nearly 450 years. 
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🏰 Historical Significance
The fort’s origins trace back to 1540 when King Henry VIII commissioned the first fortifications. The current Grade I listed structure dates from the mid-18th century, with substantial 19th and 20th-century additions. Notably, in 1667, it was the site of the last opposed seaborne invasion of England. Dutch forces under Admiral Michiel de Ruyter landed nearby but were repelled by a garrison that included the Duke of York & Albany’s Maritime Regiment—the first Royal Marines.   
Throughout its history, Landguard Fort played a pivotal role in defending Harwich Harbour, the only deep-water port on the east coast between the Humber and the Thames. It remained active through both World Wars, serving various functions including anti-aircraft defense and as a control station for defensive minefields. 
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🕰️ Visiting Information
Opening Times (2025): • March 29 – November 2 • Thursday to Sunday during term time • Daily during school holidays and Bank Holiday Mondays • Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 3:00 PM)
Tickets: • Adults: £7.50 • Children (5–15): £4.00 • Concessions: £6.00 • Family (2 adults + up to 3 children): £20.00
Tickets include a free audio tour and can be purchased in advance or on arrival. 
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🌿 Additional Attractions
The Landguard Peninsula also features: • Felixstowe Museum – showcasing local and military history. • Landguard Nature Reserve – a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. • View Point Café – offering refreshments with scenic views.
These attractions provide a comprehensive experience for visitors interested in history, nature, and leisure. 
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For more information and to plan your visit, you can explore the official websites: • English Heritage – Landguard Fort • Landguard.com
Feel free to ask if you need assistance with directions, nearby accommodations, or upcoming events at...
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