Martello towers, sometimes known as just ‘Martellos’, are small defensive forts that were built across the British Empire during the 19th century, from the time of the French Revolution Wars onwards.
The towers stand up to 40 feet high and typically had a garrison of one officer and 15–25 men.
A total of 103 Martello towers were built in England (and 45 have survived), set at regular intervals along the coast from Seaford, Sussex, to Aldeburgh, Suffolk.
Most were constructed under the direction of General William Twiss (1745–1827) and a Captain Ford.
If you visit the English coastlines make sure you keep a look out as you may find one or more tower which has been restored, or is now a museum.
