Outer Defences Tour

Step beyond the walls and descend into Fort Nelson’s most impressive feature; a vast ditch cut to serve as the first line of defence.

On this tour, discover how the ditch was created and the vital role played in defending the Fort. For its imposing walls to the carefully designed defensive features found within. Along the way, gain a new appreciation for the engineering, labour and ingenuity that made Fort Nelson such a formidable stronghold.

Pre-bookable tours are available on these dates:

• Saturday 19 September 2026
• Saturday 20 March 2027

Tours at 10:30am and 2pm
Duration: 90 minutes
Tickets: £12
Capacity: 16 people per tour

• The tour is not considered suitable for under 12s due to the tour route.
• Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
• Unfortunately, the tour route is not accessible.
• The tour involves changes in surfaces, and some steep slopes.
• Fort Nelson is a scheduled ancient monument and contains areas of uneven ground.
• Please wear sensible, sturdy footwear to tackle the uneven ground. Visitors wearing unsuitable footwear may be refused entry on H&S grounds.
• Please be aware that this tour is conducted outside. We therefore recommend you wear suitable clothing and refreshments for the weather conditions on the day as there are no facilities on the tour route.