Fort Henry (Studland Bay)

Fort Henry is a Grade II listed World War II observation bunker built in 1943 by Canadian Royal Engineers on Redend Point, Studland Bay. It spans over 90 ft, with three-foot-thick concrete walls and an 80 ft recessed observation slit from which Churchill, King George VI and Eisenhower watched Exercise Smash, the full-scale D-Day rehearsal.

Visitors follow a self-guided trail through the bunker’s segmented interior, reading interpretation panels that recount Operation Smash and the tragic sinking of six Valentine tanks. The site is open daily and free to visit, with no on-site amenities beyond basic seating. Parking is at Middle Beach car park (free for National Trust members; £3 for two hours; £5 all day), and a café, toilets and gift shop lie a short walk away.

Special exhibits include seasonal displays of World War II ordnance and ration packs, children’s activity panels during Heritage Open Days, plus uninterrupted panoramic views over Studland Bay from the slit.

Photo credit: Ungry Young Man