19th-century military sea fort with key role in World War II sells for $163,000

Fort Darnet, a 19th-century fort on the River Medway, has been sold for $163,000 (£121,000), more than double its initial estimate of £50,000. The auction, handled by Savills, drew strong interest from buyers and ended a 40-year period under the same ownership.

Located near Hoo in Kent, United Kingdom, Fort Darnet is a scheduled monument, legally protected for its historical and cultural significance. Built between 1870 and 1872 following the recommendations of the Royal Commission on the Defence of the United Kingdom, the fort was designed to defend the Chatham naval dockyard and control river access through a strategic bottleneck.

The fort was built to house a battalion of 100 men and was used for artillery training, with facilities designed for maritime defense. Much of the original structure still stands, a factor that contributed to the high level of interest during the auction.

Role during World War II

Although decommissioned before World War I, Fort Darnet was brought back into service as an observation post during World War II. Platforms and small bunkers were added to the top of the structure to support its defensive function.

The fort is generally in good condition, although parts of the powder magazine are flooded. The island is accessible only by boat, and until 1980, it was used recreationally for picnics and leisure activities.

A Savills spokesperson said the company was “delighted” the fort had found a new owner and emphasized that the sale highlights growing interest in historic monuments. Jeremy Lamb, director of the auction team, noted that bidding was highly competitive and described the result as “fantastic” for the client.

The sale of Fort Darnet reflects the increasing attention given to heritage and military properties in the United Kingdom, where historic buildings are increasingly sought by collectors, institutions, and individuals interested in preserving cultural heritage.

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