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    Key features

    • A Victorian Island Fort
    • Comprising nine guest suites, staff accommodation and event spaces
    • Located in The Solent
    • Potential for alternative use (subject to consents)
    • Approximately 33,000 sq. ft.(over 3 floors)
    • 60 Covers Restaurant, Crows Nest Function Suite, Wine Cave, Roof Terrace, Hot Pool, Sauna, Fire Pit and Sun Decks
    • Fully Refurbished
    • 15ft thick Granite Walls
    • Fully self-contained with Fresh water well, Marine Generators and Sewage treatment plant
    • Viewings available on request

    Description

    Spitbank Sea Fort, a formidable granite island, commands the waters of the Solent approximately one mile south of Portsmouth Harbour. Its strategic location offers easy access to the entire South Coast of Hampshire and Dorset, with the Isle of Wight just three miles southeast, all reachable by your own boat. Constructed in the 1860s as part of a trio of forts to safeguard Portsmouth against potential naval threats from French ironclad warships, Spitbank Fort's circular design, predominantly crafted from granite, brick, and stone, features upper walls fortified with thick armour plating, a testament to its resilience against high-explosive rounds. Situated in shallow waters at the mouth of Portsmouth Harbour, the fort stands as a timeless sentinel, accessible solely by boat, with a private landing stage ensuring convenience regardless of tide levels. Equipped with essential amenities including a private water source from an artesian well, marine generators for power, and a sewage treatment plant, Spitbank Fort offers a fully self-sufficient living experience. Furnishings can be negotiated, providing an opportunity to tailor the fort's interior to your preferences. Spitbank Fort epitomizes exclusivity and comfort amidst the maritime allure of the Solent.


    Solent Forts

    Additional information

    Tenure

    Freehold.

    Accommodation

    Nine Guest Suites, Staff Accommodation and Event Spaces including, among others, Restaurants, Bars, Roof Terrace and Commercial Kitchen.


    Viewings available on request please email rhoweson@savills.com

    Planning

    Existing Planning Use as a Hotel (C1), or Private Residence (C3). Licensed Wedding Venue. Possible Potential for variety of Alternative Uses, including Ultra Private Residence, Boutique Hotel, Casino, Corporate Offices, Training Centre or Conversion to Individual Apartments, subject to consents.

    Notes

    The Palmerston Forts that encircle Portsmouth were built in response to the 1859 Royal Commission dealing with the perceived threat of a French invasion. The forts were intended to defend the Dockyard in Portsmouth. Construction was carried out by the Royal Engineers and civilian contractors (under Royal Engineer supervision). In addition to the newly constructed forts, extensive work was carried out on existing fortifications.

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      All viewings at this property have now taken place prior to the auction. For further information on the property please download the legal pack or email the property contact.

      Savills are not holding any viewings for this property. For further information please download the legal pack or email the relevant Savills Contact directly.

      Viewings are in the process of being finalised and will be online shortly, please click here for a notification when they go online.

      No set viewings will be available on this property prior to auction due to the tenants in situ. Please refer to the legal pack for further information.

      No set viewings will be available on this property prior to auction due to safety concerns within the property. Please refer to the legal pack for further information.

      There are no formal viewings for this property. You can visit during commercial trading hours as a customer.

      Local information

      Portsmouth: This historic city boasts a rich maritime heritage and a

      plethora of cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the famous Historic

      Dockyard, home to the HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum,

      offering a fascinating glimpse into Britain's naval history. The city also

      offers vibrant shopping districts, waterfront dining options, and lively

      entertainment venues.

      Isle of Wight: Just a short distance from the Solent Forts lies the

      picturesque Isle of Wight, renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor

      adventures. Nature lovers can wander along the island's scenic coastal paths,

      explore charming villages, or visit iconic landmarks such as the Needles and

      Osborne House, Queen Victoria's seaside retreat. The Isle of Wight also hosts

      numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating music, arts, and

      local culture.

      Sailing and Fishing: The Solent region is a paradise for

      sailing enthusiasts, with its sheltered waters and steady breezes offering

      ideal conditions for cruising, racing, and yacht chartering. Fishing

      enthusiasts can cast their lines in the rich waters of the Solent, teeming with

      a variety of fish species including bass, mackerel, and plaice. Charter boats

      and guided fishing trips are readily available for those looking to embark on a

      maritime adventure.

      Coastal Walks: The Solent coastline offers miles of scenic walking

      trails, meandering through rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and peaceful nature

      reserves. From gentle strolls along promenades to challenging hikes along the

      South Downs Way, there are routes suitable for all ages and abilities. Visitors

      can soak up the fresh sea air, spot wildlife such as seabirds and seals, and

      discover hidden coves and historic landmarks along the way.

      Transport

      Transport Links -

      Portsmouth, is situated on the south coast of England, benefits from excellent

      transport connections and proximity to major airports:


      Southampton Airport: Located approximately 20 miles away, Southampton Airport offers domestic and international flights to destinations across Europe.

      London Heathrow Airport: One of the world's busiest airports, Heathrow is situated around 65 miles northeast of Portsmouth and is accessible by road and rail.

      London Gatwick Airport: Located approximately 60 miles northeast of Portsmouth, Gatwick Airport is a major international hub with flights to destinations worldwide.


      Road: Portsmouth is also well-connected to the UK's

      road network, with the M27 motorway providing easy access to Southampton and the M3 for routes towards London (less than 1 hr away) and the Midlands. The A27 connects Portsmouth to Chichester and Brighton to the west, while the A3 links the city to London and the rest of the country.


      Rail: Portsmouth boasts several railway stations, including Portsmouth & Southsea, Portsmouth Harbour, and Fratton. These stations offer regular services to London Waterloo, Southampton, Brighton, and other destinations across the South Coast. Direct trains to London take approximately 90 minutes, making it a convenient option for commuters and travellers.


      Ferry: Portsmouth is a major ferry port, with regular services to the Isle of Wight, France, Spain, and the Channel Islands. The Portsmouth International Port serves both passenger and freight ferries, offering convenient travel options for both leisure and business travellers.

      Legal documents

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      EPC rating

      If no EPC rating appears please refer to the legal pack.

      Guide prices and common auction conditions

      •Guide prices given are indications within 10% upwards or downwards of where the reserve price may be set at the time of going to print. Please note they are not an indication of the anticipated sale price or a valuation.

      •The reserve price is the minimum price at which the property can be sold.

      •Both the guide price and reserve price may be subject to change up to and including the day of the auction.

      •For unsold properties after an auction an Available price may be listed. This is the price that the seller(s) are looking for post auction, subject to contract and no higher offers, and has no relation to the guide prices listed prior to the auction sale.

      Please note that all prices listed, whether prior to or post auction, are subject to contract.

      The Auctioneers and sellers accept no responsibility for any loss, cost or damage that a buyer may incur as a result of relying on any guide price. It is the buyer's responsibility to decide how much they should bid for any lot. Please check with us for regular updates as guide prices are subject to change prior to the auction.

      The guide price does not include the buyer's fee charged by the auctioneer or VAT which may apply to the sale or other amounts the seller may charge. The seller's Special Conditions of Sale will state whether there are other seller's charges and whether the seller has elected to charge VAT on the sale price.

      Addendums