Looking for a conference venue with a difference? A luxury retreat steeped in Napoleonic history might be just the thing
For more than 130 years Spitbank Fort has stood resolute on a sandbank one mile offshore from Portsmouth harbour. Originally built to defend the naval city from the threat of a Napoleonic invasion, a multimillion-pound investment has transformed this grade II-listed monument into an exclusive nine-bedroom luxury retreat available to hire for group getaways and corporate gatherings of the highest rank.
This is the epitome of regenerative regalia. Dating back to 1878, the circular sentry of the Solent has been painstakingly renovated by specialist retreats company Clarenco under the watchful eyes of English Heritage ensuring no surviving original features were lost.
Once home to hundreds of soldiers and nine 12.5in muzzle-loading guns, Spitbank now caters for a far more comfortable number of guests in three private dining rooms and three champagne bars, including a rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the harbour and the Isle of Wight – ideal for Cowes Week.
The newly constructed top deck boasts a hot pool, sauna and a fire pit, while those seeking refuge from the sea air can relax below in the well- stocked wine cellar, library, billiards room and gym or explore the pitch-black bolthole running the length of the fort's 162ft diameter.
With accommodation for 18 people and function space for 60, Spitbank is sure to enchant your guests whether it's for business or pleasure.
Clarenco is offering Spitbank Fort at an introductory rate from £8,000 per night for exclusive use. www.clarenco.com
