Fort Redoubt, one of a series of Forts built by Lord Palmerston along the Island shore. With the large maritime ports of Southampton and Portsmouth, the Island was seen as a first line of defence. 1855-56 saw the building of Fort Redoubt on the cliffs at the western end of the Bay. This was built in order to stop the French landing and attacking the other forts on the Solent side of the Island. It is not open to the public    but the main layout can still be observed from above on the Downs. A deep, brick lined ditch was cut to the north and west in order to stop an attack from the land. Inside the ditch was a barrack block designed to house 24 soldiers. On the top of the newly created island was a parade ground and a one story flat roofed building. This was made into two stories in 1936 as quarters for the officers and NCOs. Extensive tunnels and rooms were built under the chalk of the cliff so as to be safe from mortars. The fort was restricted in size and so in 1928 was sold to Mrs Amelia Bowland Cross for £600. Since then it has come under several owners and a tea room added, but has since become a private house.