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PILLBOXES May 2008 This data is as produced from the HER database. These little forts were hastily built from 1940 when a German invasion seemed imminent. There were standard designs, although they were sometimes built with minor variations. Google map links are being added to these pages when archived Isle of Wight History Centre |
| ID | Name |
|---|---|
| 1350 | Freshwater Causeway. |
| 2422 | Chilton. |
| 2662 | Blackbridge Road. |
| 2740 | Grange Chine |
| 2806 | Afton. |
| 2807 | Shanklin Chine |
| 2808 | Sandown. |
| 2809 | Bembridge |
| 2810 | St Helens Church. Pillbox |
| 2811 | St Helens Duver. |
| 3222 | Freshwater Marsh. |
| 3225 | Verwood Cottages, Forest Road. |
| 3234 | Ventnor Down. |
| 3235 | Yarbridge. |
| 3236 | Yarbridge. |
| 3237 | Hill Farm |
| 3238 | Yaverland. |
| 3289 | Sandown Bay Holiday Centre. |
| 3459 | Osborne Steps, Shanklin Esplanade |
| 3513 | Bembridge Forelands. |
| 4317 | Shide |
| 4318 | Bouldnor. |
| 4319 | Bouldnor. |
| 4320 | Fort Warden. |
| 4321 | Fort Warden. |
| 4322 | Fort Warden. |
| 4323 | Fort Warden. |
| 4325 | Cliff End, |
| 4327 | Culver Battery. |
| 4328 | Ventnor, St Boniface Down |
| 4547 | Rookley |
| 4873 | Shanklin |
| 5607 | Freshwater Bay. |
| 5618 | Freshwater Bay, beneath cliffs between Fort Redoubt and Albion Hotel. |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 1350 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Freshwater Causeway. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3478 8717 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Hexagonal tye 22 pillbox; part of the Yar defence line |
| Description: | Polygonal pillbox constructed with concrete, south east facing. [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] Polygonal concrete pillbox on south side of Freshwater Causeway. Photographed. [Field visit F. Basford, R. Loader, 22.9.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated at the western end of the Causeway, right hand side. This is an hexagonal type 22 pillbox. Bullet proof with all round apertures for defence. It covers the area of the marshes and affords protection for the nearly railway line (now extinct). It forms part of the Yar defence line and was built as with the others in the vicinity by the Royal Engineers attached 12th Infantry Brigade. It could at one time also be fitted with an AA gun on the roof. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] UORN S0012109 Pillbox (type FW3/22) SZ 34787 87173 On south side of the Causeway road on north side of the mud and reed flats where the road crosses the River Yar, East of Freshwater. Description: Air photograph 03/09/1940 Hexagonal pillbox plotted from air photograph. Field visit 23/06/1992 Hexagonal-shaped pillbox of a type 22 variant (concrete faced) with all round defensive fire. A small iron base on the top suggests that a fixture for a small AA gun was fitted. Field visit 26/08/2003 Type 22 concrete faced pillbox commanding the broad crossing of the River Yar. Concrete interior anti-ricochet wall. Two small vertical embrasures either side of the doorway. A square embrasure in each of the other five faces. Faces SE. Public access, including interior. Some ivy overgrown. Condition: good but with some ivy overgrown. Part of Southern Command: River Yar Stopline. Construction date 1940-1941. Reference 225B/UK851/2 (frs 9-10) RAF aeria; photographs [Foot, W. with Thomson, C. 2004. 'Defence areas: a national study of Second World War anti-invasion landscapes in England', Annex: Components of Defence area 73. CBA/English Heritage.] |
| Civil Parish | Freshwater, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 1350 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2422 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Chilton. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ48SW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 4119 8225 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Pill box square type made of pre cast concrete panels and bolted together. |
| Description: | Pill box square type made of pre cast concrete panels and bolted together. Faces west (see topic file in SMR for other island pillboxes). Photographs taken [Wills, H. 'Pillboxes, a study of UK defences, 1940'] Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, K. Trott, 19.4.1996 Pillbox photographed. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 9.2.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated in a field on the north side of the Military Road. This is a rare pillbox, the only one on the Island, being of a pre-fabricated type with ready made panels bolted together. This is a bullet proof box with all round defence for light machine gun and rifle. It is beginning to deteriorate due to salt water spray getting into the steel reinforcing. Must be saved somehow due to its unique type. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Brighstone, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2422 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Heritage Coast |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2662 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Blackbridge Road. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3458 8632 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Concrete pillbox |
| Description: | Polygonal pill-box constructed with concrete facing east. [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994.] Pillbox survives at side of Blackbridge Road. Heavily overgrown with vegetation. An oil tank supported on concrete blocks abuts the pill-box on its northern side. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 11.8.1998 (coastal audit)] Situated on the right hand side of the road by an entrance to a filed. A square shaped concrete pillbox with apertures for rifles, on all round defence. Bullet proof only. Part of the Yar defence line. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] UORN S0012107 Pillbox SZ 35579 86321 On north side of Blackbridge Road, west of Black Bridge, at edge of Afton Marsh Nature Reserve, north of Freshwater Bay. Description: Field visit 26/08/2003 Very heavily overgrown concrete faced pillbox. It faces east with entrance on west side. Square embrasures. It is so overgrown its shape cannot be made out. A water tank raised on blocks has been set up against it. In private field. No access. Field visit 23/06/1999 Square shaped concrete-faced pillbox. Field of fire E. The embrasures are large vertical rectangles. Internal blast/ricochet wall. Condition: fair but overgrown. [Foot, W. with Thomson, C. 2004. 'Defence areas: a national study of Second World War anti-invasion landscapes in England', Annex: Components of Defence area 73. CBA/English Heritage.] |
| Civil Parish | Freshwater, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2662 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2740 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Grange Chine |
| Map Sheet: | SZ48SW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 4218 8188 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | WWII pillbox or observation post |
| Description: | Observed from a distance due to inaccessibility. Situated to south west of the coastguard cottages. Overgrown with blackthorn. [F. Basford, R. Loader, field visit 20.8.1998 (coastal audit)] Subterranean multi-angled passageway 3ft wide, constructed of red brick with concrete floor and roof. Roof covered in turf and currently overgrown with blackthorn. Five embrasures and entrances at either end. The passage is higher at the view points to allow standing room. Possibly an observation post rather than a pillbox. Position measured using GPS. [Field visit F. Basford, R. Loader, 29.3.1999 (coastal audit)] |
| Civil Parish | Brighstone, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2740 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Heritage Coast | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2806 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Afton. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3441 8696 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Type 22 pillbox, now in the car park of Honour and Jeffery Garden Centre |
| Description: | Polygonal pill-box, constructed with concrete, facing south [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994.] Pillbox in car park of Honnor and Jeffery Garden Centre. Almost completely masked by pyracantha plants. [Field visit F. Basford, R. Loader, 22.9.1999] Situated in the car park of Afton Road Nurseries. This is an hexagonal type 22 pillbox, bullet proof and with 360 degree field of fire for light machine guns. Now covered with trellis and plants which will preserve it. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] UORN S0012108 Pillbox (type FW3/22) SZ 34410 86963 On north side of Afton Road, in car park of Afton Garden Centre and the End of the Line Café, Freshwater. Description: Field visit 26/08/2003 Tye 22 concrete-faced pillbox, now surrounded by trellis work and covered with creeper. A weathervane is set on the roof. Square and 'vertical' embrasures. Faces S. Only a small portion of the exterior is not hidden by plant growth. Access, but not interior. The pillbox would undoubtably be revealed as in 'good' condition if the growth was removed. Air photograph 03/09/1940 Hexagonal pillbox plotted from air photograph. Map 01/06/1941 Pillbox plotted from German map Field visit 03/07/1999 Hexagonal-shaped pillbox with all-round field of fire. In 1994 the nursery set the pillbox walls with trellis work and a flower bed at the base. The pillbox is consequently now 'overgrown'. Field visit undated. Hexagonal concrete pillbox. Field of fire S. Covered in creeper. Condition: good, but covered in creeper. Part of Southern Command: River Yar Stop Line. Construction date 1940-1941. References: 225B/UK 851/2 (frs 9/10) RAF aerial photographs. Sheet (Blatt) 141 Befestigungskarte Grossbritannien 1:50000 [Foot, W. with Thomson, C. 2004. 'Defence areas: a national study of Second World War anti-invasion landscapes in England', Annex: Components of Defence area 73. CBA/English Heritage.] |
| Civil Parish | Freshwater, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2806 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2807 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Shanklin Chine |
| Map Sheet: | SZ58SE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 585 811 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Pill-box constructed into revetment on north side of Shanklin Chine. Built into one of several recesses, others of which contain seats, and beneath the steps from the road to the beach |
| Description: | Rectangular pill-box constructed with concrete, facing south (steps from beach over) [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994.] Pill-box constructed into revetment on north side of Shanklin Chine. Built into one of several recesses, others of which contain seats, and beneath the steps from the road to the beach. Immediately south of gents toilets. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 21.1.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated below a flight of steps leading to beach. The pillbox is roughly 30 feet above the beach, built into the side of the cliff. It is unusual in that it has a very small entry being only 3' x 1'9". The remains of what could have been a weapon support under each aperture give cause that it contained medium machine guns to cover the beach below. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Shanklin, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Conservation Area |
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2807 |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2808 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Sandown. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68SW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 6094 8489 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Pillbox constructed on top of casemate of Sandown Fort (now Sandown Zoo) |
| Description: | Rectangular pill-box constructed with concrete facing south-east (L/H Sandown Fort) [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994.] Sandown Fort. "The partly demolished remains were adapted in WW2 with some brick structures built against the ruined casemates. A pillbox was added to the top of the casemated front". [Saunders, A. 1998. 'Fortifications of Portsmouth and the Solent: a review of pre-20th century coastal defence sites and associated remains', p.133 and photo 2/47 A, English Heritage] Concrete, rectangular pillbox observed on top of casemate. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader 25.1.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated on the rampart of the old fort, now the Zoo. There is no access either externally or internally. I have looked over the old fort but cannot get onto the rampart wall. This appears to be of concrete construction for use of heavy machine guns to cover the northern aspect of the beach defences. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Sandown, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2808 |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2809 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Bembridge |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 651 886 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Large rectangular pillbox, largely buried by shingle |
| Description: | Rectangular pill-box constructed with concrete, north-west facing [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994.] Pillbox, north facing, buried in shingle to top of embrasure. Sunken entrance on west side with 2 steps leading down and stepped wall of concrete sheeting c. 22cm wide on either side. Entrance at southern end, not central. Pillbox measures 13 ft square. Embrasure is 1.94 metres long. Plotted using GPS. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 5.3.1999 (coastal audit)] A large concrete pillbox measuring 12' 6" x 12' 6" x 6' high at the rear. There is one aperture on the north side and possibly another on the north east facing the sea. Because of a build up of shingle I cannot see how these are, the one I presume to be on the north side is completely hidden. The entrance at the rear measuring 2' 6" x 1' 9". Entry is gained by three steps down into a trench. The doorway is partially blocked by shingle and is unsafe to enter. The roof is of corrugated iron covered in earth. From the flash photograph I managed to take, there does not appear to be any timber support beams. If the roof corrugated iron slopes from rear to front then the aperture seen must be the sea facing wall which cannot be seen from outside. Although a large pillbox it can only be bullet proof, because of the weakness of the roof. Because of the small entrance, it could only have been used by infantry weapons unless they installed a coastal defence gun before placing the roof on. With the amount of shingle inside I think we will never be quite sure unless somebody would like o remove several tons of shingle. An interesting thought. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore, Defence of Britain Project local co-ordinator, 4.7.2001] |
| Civil Parish | Bembridge, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2809 |
| S.A.C. | |
| S.P.A. | |
| RAMSAR | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2810 |
|---|---|
| Name: | St Helens Church. Pillbox |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 6370 8947 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Square concrete pillbox constructed up against south wall of church |
| Description: | Concrete pill-box disguised within the ruins of St Helens Church, facing south-east [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994.] Concrete pillbox with bricked in entrance and embrasure. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 8.3.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated against the south wall of the old church. It is a square concrete structure with one gun aperture to seaward, with the door to the rear. There appears to be no other weapon apertures so was constructed as a shell proof heavy machine gun pillbox to protect the harbour mouth. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | St. Helens, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2810 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 2811 |
|---|---|
| Name: | St Helens Duver. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 6373 8931 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Pillbox incorporated into sea wall |
| Description: | Pill-box of mixed construction, L/H sea wall [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994.] Pill-box incorporated into sea wall, slightly to south of cafe [Field visit, R. Loader, P. Simpson, 29.11.1998] Pillbox constructed of concrete and stone. North east facing. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 8.3.1999 (coastal audit).] Coastal defence pillbox abutting the sea wall on the beach. Because of extensive restructuring of the sea wall and the Duver behind, it is almost impossible to determine size or type. It appears to be a shell proof concrete pillbox, which probably housed a 3" coastal defence gun. I have no further information on this pillbox. None of the local people I talked to could help me. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local co-ordinator), 4.7.2001] |
| Civil Parish | St. Helens, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 2811 |
| S.P.A. | |
| RAMSAR | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3222 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Freshwater Marsh. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 349 861 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Pillbox, now demolished |
| Description: | Polygonal pill-box constructed with concrete [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] Location of pillbox not established. [.] Situated just off the Afton Road on the right hand side approximately 200 yards from Freshwater Bay. Part of the Yar defence line. Now demolished, only the base and steps leading to it remain. It is now somebody's garden. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] UORN S0012106 Pillbox NGR SZ 3492 8610 Set back off the main Afton road leading to Freshwater Bay. Description: Field visit 26/08/2003 Field work shows no sign of this structure. Presumed now destroyed entirely. Field vist 03/07/1999 Pillbox - demolished. Only the base and steps leading to it remain. Field visit undated Pillbox, the site of which has been reported but was not seen by the recorder. Condition: destroyed Part of Southern Command: River Yar stopline Construction date 1940-1941 [Foot, W. with Thomson, C. 2004. 'Defence areas: a national study of Second World War anti-invasion landscapes in England', Annex: Components of Defence area 73. CBA/English Heritage.] |
| Civil Parish | Freshwater, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3222 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Local Nature Reserve | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3225 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Verwood Cottages, Forest Road. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ48NE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 4838 8987 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Type 22 pillbox |
| Description: | Polygonal pill box constructed with concrete, west facing [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] Situated in the grounds of Forest View Nurseries, top right hand corner, adjacent the road. Now overgrown and hard to see. This is a type 22 pillbox, but three of the walls have been made using corrugated iron instead of the normal wood facing, giving the sides a grooved look. The rear and doorway are normal smooth walls. This is a bullet proof pillbox set up for three light machine guns for all round defence. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3225 |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3234 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Ventnor Down. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ57NE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 565 785 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Polygonal pillbox |
| Description: | Polygonal pill-box constructed with mixed materials, north west facing [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] |
| Civil Parish | Ventnor, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3234 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| S.A.C. | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3235 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Yarbridge. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 6089 8632 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Type 23 pillbox |
| Description: | Rectangular pill-box constructed with concrete, west facing [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] Pillbox extant in layby on north side of road. [Field visit F. Basford, R. Loader, 26.1.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated on the left side of Marshcombe Shute, one hundred yards past the Angler's Inn. It is a type 23 pillbox with apertures for rifle fire covering 180 degree field of fire from south, west to north. Built to contain either a mortar or a light AA weapon. I can see no evidence of a support so presume this had a mortar fitted. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Bembridge, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3235 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3236 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Yarbridge. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 612 862 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Rectangular pillbox, now demolished |
| Description: | Rectangular pill-box constructed with concrete, west facing [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] This one was situated higher up the road [from PRN 3235] facing the Yaverland Road junction. Now demolished. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Bembridge, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3236 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3237 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Hill Farm |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 6109 8865 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | |
| Description: | Rectangular pill-box constructed with concrete, south west facing. (type 23) [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] Situated at the entrance to Hill Farm in a small patch of copse to the right of the drive. This is a type 23 pillbox. Bullet proof with all round defensive capability, it had either a six inch mortar or a light AA gun. I can find no fittings within the pillbox. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Bembridge, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3237 |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3238 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Yaverland. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 613 853 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Documentary reference to pillbox |
| Description: | Pill-box? [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] Site occupied by housing estate. [Field visit F. Basford, R. Loader, 26.1.1999 (coastal audit)] |
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3238 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3289 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Sandown Bay Holiday Centre. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 617 853 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Demolished pill box |
| Description: | Disguised pill-box constructed with concrete, south-east facing, destroyed? SZ 617 853 [Information from list provided by Henry Wills, May 1994] Demolished. Very little remains, so no details available. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Sandown, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3289 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3459 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Osborne Steps, Shanklin Esplanade |
| Map Sheet: | SZ58SE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 5856 8141 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Polygonal pillbox, constructed of concrete and red brick, facing east. Appears to have been incorporated into earlier steps from the top of the cliff to the Esplanade |
| Description: | During examination of the pillbox at Shanklin Chine (PRN 2807) an elderly passer by informed us that there was another near the lift. Polygonal pillbox, constructed of concrete and red brick, facing east. Appears to have been incorporated into earlier steps from the top of the cliff to the Esplanade. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 21.1.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated level with the old steps, now disused and between the first and second level of the new steps. A very difficult pillbox to assess as although it appears to be intact the location is not without its dangers as far as close inspection. It appears to be in two parts, whether they are connected internally cannot be ascertained. There appears to be an entrance on the north facing wall, and another to the rear of the south end of the box. It is rectangular in appearance, the southern end set back slightly from the north end. This makes me believe that it is in two parts. The northern end appears to have an entrance at the rear of it, now concreted in. There appears to be no weapon apertures in either the side or face walls, which are of brick and concrete construction. The southern end does have an opening about 1' x 1' about eight feet above ground level. It appears to be more observation than weapon. No other signs of apertures can be detected. I will return to this one in the near future but will possibly need some help to unravel this one. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Shanklin, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3459 |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 3513 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Bembridge Forelands. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 6555 8728 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Pillbox, now incorporated into sea wall |
| Description: | Square (3.87m x 3.87m), hollow concrete structure with an integral flat roof. A small aperture on the north side is flanked by a pair of parallel narrow walls which abut the main structure and also slope away from it. The structure is now situated behind a more recently constructed sea wall, part of a coastal protection scheme. As a result of this work the structure is now partially subterranean. [Field visit, F. Basford, R. Loader, 26.2.1999 (coastal audit)] Situated below the Crab and Lobster Inn on the sea wall. This pillbox was also built by W.J. Simonds, builder of Brading. Unfortunately this has been incorporated into the sea wall so it is impossible to tell which type or size. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Bembridge, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 3513 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW163 | Isle of Wight Coastal Audit (Ref: IWSMR 6086) | Isle of Wight County Archaeology and Historic Environment Service |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4317 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Shide |
| Map Sheet: | SZ58NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 503 882 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Building not built as a pillbox but is a garden brick built shed, with one aperture for a machine gun. The inside of the shed has been reinforced with concrete on the aperture side only. Probably to protect Shide railway sidings |
| Description: | Situated just off St George's Way in a builder's garden. This was not built as a pillbox but is a garden brick built shed, with one aperture for a machine gun. The inside of the shed has been reinforced with concrete on the aperture side only. It was probably for the protection of Shide railway sidings. The garden wall also has evidence of being loopholed for rifles. There is a rumour that the area was used as an headquarters for the Royal Fusiliers for a time, so they could have been responsible for the adaptation. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4317 |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4318 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Bouldnor. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ39SE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3793 9006 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Rectangular shell proof anti tank pillbox |
| Description: | Situated to the right of the road going from Forest Road to the Battery. This is a rectangular shell proof anti tank pillbox with a 90 degree field of fire facing south. Entrance to the rear. Possibly a six pounder anti tank gun plus light machine guns for close support, in all round field of fire. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Shalfleet, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Scheduled Monument | 22028 Bouldnor Battery |
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4318 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Heritage Coast |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4319 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Bouldnor. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ39SE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3789 9006 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Rectangular bullet proof brick built pillbox, now used as a shed |
| Description: | Situated to the left of the road, behind the Bungalow. This is a rectangular bullet proof brick built pillbox, now used as a shed. It is double brick built with sand filled cavities. It has rifle apertures with south and west field of fire. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Shalfleet, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4319 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Heritage Coast |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4320 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Fort Warden. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 325 877 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Pillbox |
| Description: | Warden Point also had a role in the searchlight experiments of 1889-92. This eventually required a new engine room on the north-east side of the battery and in 1911 a concrete wall, flanked by concrete blockhouses, provided protection from land attack on this extension of the original battery… The two blockhouses are hexagonal with small externally splayed rifle loops. They have subsequently been heightened in coarse mass concrete. Most interesting, however, are the concrete block houses of 1911, anticipating the more familiar pillboxes of both world wars. These are remarkable survivals which should be protected. [Saunders, A. 1998. 'Fortifications of Portsmouth and the Solent: a review of pre-20th century coastal defence sites and associated remains'. English Heritage, p.107-108] There are three more pillboxes outside the confines of the fort. One is an external building which has two loopholes cut into the side. The other two possibly later built, one at each end of the eastern fort wall. Both these have 180 degree arc of fire for rifle apertures. These may have been built in late 1941 when the camp became an Italian Prisoner of War Camp. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] Hexagonal structure at SZ 3255 8775 and possibly another at SZ 3258 8771 [.] |
| Civil Parish | Totland, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4320 |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4321 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Fort Warden. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 324 875 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Two pillboxes at the western end and just forward of the battery. Both within twenty feet of each other. The right hand one has collapsed |
| Description: | Two pillboxes at the western end and just forward of the battery. Both within twenty feet of each other. The right hand one has collapsed, both are covered in vegetation so unable to ascertain type or size, but both must face seaward. The vegetation has been left because of repeated vandalism to the site. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Totland, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4321 |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4322 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Fort Warden. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3240 8750 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Two pillboxes at the western end and just forward of the battery. Both within twenty feet of each other. The right hand one has collapsed |
| Description: | Two pillboxes at the western end and just forward of the battery. Both within twenty feet of each other. The right hand one has collapsed, both are covered in vegetation so unable to ascertain type or size, but both must face seaward. The vegetation has been left because of repeated vandalism to the site. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Totland, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4322 |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4323 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Fort Warden. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 324 875 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Three more pillboxes are outside the confines of the fort. One is an external building which has two loopholes cut into the side |
| Description: | There are three more pillboxes outside the confines of the fort. One is an external building which has two loopholes cut into the side. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Totland, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4323 |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4325 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Cliff End, |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 330 892 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Two storey structure comprising pillbox lower level and lookout above, on the eastern end of the rampart |
| Description: | Situated on the eastern end of the rampart, it is a two storey pillbox lower level and a lookout above. Built of bullet proof concrete giving an all round field of fire. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Freshwater, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4325 |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4327 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Culver Battery. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ68NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 636 856 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Originally two pillboxes, in front of the battery and slightly left, near the cliff edge. Only the remains of the bases exist now |
| Description: | Originally two pillboxes on the site, in front of the battery and slightly left, near the cliff edge. Only the remains of the bases exist now, but they probably covered the north side of the cliff, Whitecliff Bay side. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] May possibly be PRNs 3473, 3474 or 3478 [.] NTSMR 125425 No trace found of these features in 2003 [Bannister, N.R. 2003. 'Bembridge and Culver Down, Isle of Wight: Archaeology and Historic Environment Survey, volume 1; report and inventory', p.72] |
| Civil Parish | Bembridge, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4327 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| Event ID | Name/Ref | Organisation | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIW156 | Bembridge and Culver Down Estate, National Trust (Ref: IWSMR 5595) | National Trust |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4328 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Ventnor, St Boniface Down |
| Map Sheet: | SZ57NE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 565 785 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | There were three pillboxes situated on the west side of the radar station, outside the present wire perimeter fence, roughly 20' off the roadway. Only the bases now remain. |
| Description: | There were three pillboxes situated on the west side of the radar station, outside the present wire perimeter fence, roughly 20' off the roadway. Only the bases now remain. They would have had perfect 180 degree of fire, covering the only existing roadway on to the down. Seeing that the whole area was mined from 1940 onwards, this would be the only access to the area. The three observation huts on the southern aspect of the roadway covered the mined south side. [Information provided by Mr Dave Moore (Defence of Britain Project local coordinator), 27.9.2000] |
| Civil Parish | Ventnor, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4328 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| S.A.C. | |
| Site of Special Scientific Interest |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4547 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Rookley |
| Map Sheet: | SZ58SW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 5089 8349 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | |
| Description: | Brick pillbox with flat concrete roof photographed by G.H. Powell at Rookley. [Powell, G.H. n.d. 'Island Bygones, vol 2', unpubl. (IWSMR)] |
| Civil Parish | Rookley, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4547 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 4873 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Shanklin |
| Map Sheet: | SZ58SE |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 587 819 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | Square concrete pillbox |
| Description: | Defence of Britain Database: Anti-invasion record no. S0012127. Square concrete pillbox covering beach. SZ 587 819. Condition unknown. Recorder: Jeffrey Carson. [Defence of Britain database, April 2002] |
| Civil Parish | Shanklin, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 4873 |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 5607 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Freshwater Bay. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3462 8574 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | WW2 pillbox |
| Description: | UORN S0016666 Pillbox SZ 3460 8574 On Freshwater Bay seafront near Albion Hotel. Description: Field visit 26/08/2003 The pillbox site is that probably now occupied by a wishing well. Air photograph 28/07/1940 Pillbox plotted from air photograph. It appears 'domed', perhaps part of its camouflage. Map 01/06/1941 Pillbox plotted from German map. Condition: Destroyed Part of: Isle of Wight Coastal Defences Construction date: 07/1940 References: SZ 3585/11 (fr.0049) RAF aerial photographs 225E/BR222 (fr.9) RAF aerial photographs Sheet (Blatt 141) Befestigungskarte Grossbritannien 1:50,000 [Foot, W. with Thomson, C. 2004. 'Defence areas: a national study of Second World War anti-invasion landscapes in England', Annex: Components of Defence area 73. CBA/English Heritage.] |
| Civil Parish | Freshwater, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 5607 |
| Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty | |
| Heritage Coast |
| ID (Preferred Ref.): | 5618 |
|---|---|
| Name: | Freshwater Bay, beneath cliffs between Fort Redoubt and Albion Hotel. |
| Map Sheet: | SZ38NW |
| Grid Reference: | SZ 3455 8565 (point) Google map |
| Summary: | WW2 pillbox plotted from aerial photograph |
| Description: | UORN S0016714 Pillbox SZ3455 8565 Freshwater Bay, beneath cliffs between Fort Redoubt and Albion Hotel. Description: Air photograph 25/03/1949 Square loopholed structure on shoreline. Plotted from air photograph. Condition: destroyed. Part of: Isle of Wight coastal defences Construction date: 1940-1941 [Z 3485/13 (fr. 0049) RAF aerial photographs] [Foot, W. with Thomson, C. 2004. 'Defence areas: a national study of Second World War anti-invasion landscapes in England', Annex: Components of Defence area 73. CBA/English Heritage.] |
| Civil Parish | Freshwater, Isle of Wight |
|---|
| Type/Grade | Reference/Title |
|---|---|
| Sites & Monuments Record | 5618 |
| Heritage Coast |
Isle of Wight Historic Environment Record
Pillboxes
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