The Old Blockhouse, also known as the Dover Fort, is a 16th-century fortification on the island of Tresco in the Isles of Scilly. It was built between 1548 and 1551 by the government of Edward VI to protect the islands against French attack.

Overlooking Old Grimsby harbour and the anchorage of St Helen's Pool, the blockhouse would have housed a battery of two or three artillery pieces, positioned on a square gun platform on top of a rocky outcrop. An earthwork bank and a stone wall were built to protect it from attack from the beach and the landward sides respectively. A small room to provide living quarters for the garrison was later constructed on the side of the gun platform.

During the interregnum following the English Civil War, the Old Blockhouse was occupied by the Royalists and it was attacked by the Parliamentary forces of Sir Robert Blake in 1651. Blake's naval guns out-ranged those of the fort, and, after fierce fighting, the blockhouse was taken. A battery of guns was maintained at the blockhouse until at least the 1750s, but by the end of the 18th century the fortification was disused and in ruins.

After 1922 the blockhouse was placed into the guardianship of the state by the lessee of the island, Arthur Dorrien-Smith, and in the 21st century it is controlled by English Heritage and open to tourists. It is protected as a scheduled monument under UK law.

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Founded: 1548-1551
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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User Reviews

The Eggsorcist (2 years ago)
Stunning panoramic views across Scilly. Very interesting history too! How this isn't marked as a viewpoint on my ordnance survey map is beyond me!
Subir Malik (2 years ago)
Absolutely beautiful a must must visit do climb and see the beautiful views of the whole island and islands opposite the waters look heavenly from up here it's a different world
suzanneboxall (5 years ago)
Small but lovely looking. Great to stand in and take photos of the beautiful beach below.
Victoria Harrigan (6 years ago)
An amazing panoramic view from a historical perspective!
Lupicki Company (9 years ago)
amazing place for photography and especially for exclusive model shoots :) quiet, not-busy, and rare
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