Shetland
Fort Charlotte overlooks the strategically important Sound of Bressay. It was first built in the 1660s to defend the sound against Dutch warships, it was then re-established in the 1780s for the American War of Independence and garrisoned again for the Napoleonic wars of the late 18th and early 19th century.
Fort Charlotte’s guns never saw combat and were removed in 1855. The site saw a range of uses after that. It functioned as:
• a town jail and courthouse
• a custom house
• a coastguard station
• a Royal Navy Reserve depot and armory
• a drill hall for the Territorial Army
Today the fort has been reconstructed with replica guns to appear as it was in the 1780s and is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland. Fort Charlotte was built and then continued to be garrisoned because of the strategic importance of Shetland in the international seaways.
For Doors Open Days join Historic Environment Staff as we open up some of the locked doors at Fort Charlotte, and learn more about its varied history from the 1660s to today! Access to Fort Charlotte is by guided tour only.
Guided tours at 2pm and 4pm, meet by the flagpole at the heart of the fort.
Facilities
Additional Access Information
External areas are mostly accessible, buildings are not accessible.
Gallery
Key Information
Access to Fort Charlotte is by guided tour only.
Booking not required.
Where to find us
Address
- Market Street
- Lerwick
- ZE1 0JN