Bembridge fort was part of the extensive defence system built by Palmerston administration against possible invasion by French forces of Napoleon III. Constructed 1862-1867, at a cost of £48,925 as the main stronghold for the south coast of the Isle of Wight, with an establishment of three officers and one hundred other ranks and ordnance of two 4in Breech-loading and six muzzle-loading guns mounted on parapet slides. 1880 - 1900 Experimental base for anti-submarine devices, 1900 - 1914 Training camp and garrison duties, 1914 - 1920 Heavy artillery coastal defence, 1920 - 1939 Territorial army observation post for artillery based at Yaverland Battery, 1939 - 1945 Command post for anti-aircraft regiments and H.Q. local homeguard, 1948 The war department relinquished control, 1965 Purchased by I.W. County Council scheduled as an ancient monument, 1967 Acquired through enterprised neptune together with surrounding download for the National Trust.