A guest led paranormal exploration of this historic fort. With groups averaging 6 people and real equipment this is a quality event.

Up a track off the Main Road, the moated circular Redoubt Fort was built in 1808 to defend the harbour against the threatened invasion of Napoleonic forces. It mounted ten 24-pounders and housed a regiment of soldiers with sufficient food and stores to withstay a lengthy siege. Fortunately it was never called upon to demonstrate its powers. There was always a natural hill where the Redoubt now stands. Originally it was surmounted by a house, Hill House, which was purchased and demolished to make way for the Redoubt. There was also a conspicuous elm tree on the hill, known as Paine’s Tree, which was marked on old charts as a landmark for mariners. The tree was probably named after the man who owned Hill House. After this site clearance, The Redoubt was then built on top of the hill. A retaining wall was subsequently built in a circle outside the fort, thus forming a dry moat between the two. Earth was brought by pannier donkeys from the nearby low lying area (now known as Bathside) and tipped around the outside of the retaining wall to form the earthworks, which are now covered by allotments. This excavation at Bathside had repercussions in the 1953 floods as the area was then below sea level. The water came in through a breach in the sea wall and stayed in. Eight lives were lost. The Redoubt earthworks form an integral part of the fort’s defences. There is a local legend that French prisoners of war helped with the construction. The Redoubt houses a fine display of large guns, military uniforms, local artefacts and displays. All this means that this is a very active venue! Teams, who have investigated here, have reported disembodied voices, EVPs, feelings of being watched, feeling touched, strange mists that appear on camera, footsteps being heard and doors slamming. If you are brave enough to join us, there will be small groups (average of 6 people) and real equipment (no dowsing rods or pendulums).

There will be an introduction and short safety talk by lead investigator approx. 5 mins before event starts. The event will include exploration of the site, vigils, some experimentation, etc. Refreshments are provided throughout the night. After an initial exploration of the site, at approx. 1:30am guests will be offered 25 mins to return and explore any rooms they choose before exit at 2am.

Description supplied by the event organiser.