A fort was first built on Languard point in the reign of Henry VIII. The present fort, an irregular pentagon with bastions at the angles dates from 1717. This was part of the Napoleonic defences built along the coastline to protect us from invasion by the French. Notice the pattern of buildings which would allow defenders to have a clear view of the enemy. The fort is surrounded by a deep dry moat to deter the enemies progress.

The fortifications have been altered in the last part of the 19th century and in the first and second world wars. At this time gun emplacements (seen at the top and bottom) were built to protect the port from attack by both sea and air.

The fort is now a museum that can visited during the summer tourist season. The road on the left leads to the Port of Felixstowe viewing area which overlooks Harwich harbour.