Savills have been instructed by the LPA Receiver to openly market for sale No Man's Land Fort in The Solent.
No Man’s Land is one of four sea forts that were conceived as a result of a Royal Commission in 1859. This extraordinary building was built between 1867 and 1880 to help defend Portsmouth against attack from French warships. The engineering effort was stupendous. Massive granite blocks were cut and shaped on land, transported on barges and lowered into the sea to form a base for the fortress. The upper walls were covered in thick armour plating while internally the gun emplacements were specially designed to absorb the shock of a barrage being fired.
During the 1st World War, No Mans Land Fort played a strategic part in the defence of the English Channel, and then during the 2nd World War was fitted with anti aircraft guns. Throughout its military history No Mans Land has seen limited service and following the end of the 2nd World War it was decommissioned.
Regular travellers to the Isle of Wight will know the Fort having seen it from the ferry and thousands of yachtsmen will know it as a mark for The Round The Island Race. Others will have enjoyed an amazing party wedding or function on the property.
During the 1990’s the fort was acquired and restored as a private residence and then subsequently converted into an exclusive events and hospitality venue. Currently the facility is not trading but the opportunity exists to re-establish a business or potentially consider other uses for this remarkable landmark.
Easily accessible, this island retreat is truly a world of its own. It is the ultimate secure destination for business and pleasure, comprising:
- In excess of 65,000 sq feet (gross internal area)
- The Lighthouse – featuring a fully glazed observatory with 360 degree views of The Solent, plus three ensuite bedrooms.
- 21 en-suite guest bedrooms.
- Dining areas, bars, indoor swimming pool, jacuzzis and gym
- 2 helipads
- Roof garden
The great dome covering the central (Upper Gun Floor) area is a particularly interesting feature providing what amounts to a mild ‘micro-climate’ in poor weather and a light airy piazza for a variety of uses. It includes the swimming pool area, sauna and jacuzzis.
No Man’s Land has its own water supply provided by a bore hole sunk to reach fresh water deep below the sea floor (another remarkable feat of Victorian engineering). The property is served by generators, supplying The Fort, with electricity.
Nick Sweeney, the director of Savills handling the sale, says: "Without doubt No Man’s Land Fort is the most extraordinary property offering security, privacy and a remarkable amount of space. Sitting in the "Lighthouse" overlooking the Solent makes you feel like the Captain on a great ship (but it does not move) – very James Bond!"
Savills are inviting offers. There is no formal guide price for the freehold with vacant possession.