Redsand Towers

The Redsands towers lie within the Thames Estuary, 9 miles from Southend and 6 miles from Whitstable.

They can often be visable on a good clear day from the shore and often appear as a black dots on the horizon.

From Whitstable, it may be possible to see both the Redsand and Shivering sand Towers next to each other but in reality they are about 5 miles apart.

On our tours, we do not visit the Shivering Sand towers, these are just a little too far for our liking but in we think the Red Sand Towers are the best preserved.  Once you have seen one set, you have seen them both.

Purpose and History

  • WWII Defense:The forts were heavily armed anti-aircraft batteries, equipped with guns and searchlights to protect London and the estuary from German aerial attacks.
  • Success: During their operational years, they were credited with shooting down numerous enemy aircraft and flying bombs.
  • Pirate Radio: In the 1960s, after being abandoned by the military, the forts became home to pirate radio stations.
  • Filming Location: The forts have also served as a dramatic backdrop for the TV show Danger Man and a Doctor Who story.

Structure and Location

  • Seven Towers: The Red Sands Fort is made up of seven separate towers, including five gun towers, a searchlight tower, and a central control tower.
  • Thames Estuary: The forts are located in the Thames Estuary, off the coast of Kent.

Modern Status

  • Deterioration: The forts are now in a state of disrepair, with corroded structures and collapsed walkways.
  • Inaccessible: Due to potential structural defects and the risk of collapse, it is forbidden to board the forts.
  • Viewable by Tour: Boat tours are available from Whitstable to see the forts up close, though landing is not possible.
  • Preservation Efforts: A charity called Project Redsand is working to preserve and refurbish the forts as a national heritage site.