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Writer's pictureDr Iain M Lightfoot

Ghostly Echoes at Nothe Fort: An After-Action Report

Spooky and Historic

Nestled along the coast of Weymouth, Dorset, Nothe Fort stands as a proud relic of British military history and a treasure trove of ghostly tales. Recently, I had the chance to explore this remarkable Victorian fort, uncovering both its well-preserved historical elements and its eerie, paranormal atmosphere. Here’s a look back at my ghost hunt at Nothe Fort, where echoes of the past and whispers from beyond seem to linger.


A Fort Frozen in Time


Nothe Fort is an impressive sight, with a gravel courtyard and tall ramparts offering panoramic views from above. Built in the 1860s to bolster Britain’s coastal defences, the fort is strikingly familiar, echoing the architectural style of other Victorian forts like those in Portsmouth and Fort Purbrook. From the Naval Guns on the rooftop to the underground powder rooms, every corner of Nothe Fort has been meticulously restored, preserving its historical essence. Walking through its corridors and exhibits felt almost serene—there’s a unique peacefulness that seems to coexist with the ghostly lore.


During our initial walkthrough, we explored the museum’s exhibitions, taking in the fort’s legacy and the impressive Naval artifacts on display. One of the highlights was a preserved nuclear command center from the 1980s, a stark reminder of more recent defense strategies. With so much history within these walls, it’s no wonder the fort has attracted stories of hauntings.


Chilling Encounters in the Depths Below


The underground tunnels are where things took a supernatural turn. Cold spots seemed to be lurking around every corner, particularly in the deeper tunnels and closed-off rooms. Though the coastal breeze could easily explain some of the chills, a few spots felt eerily cold even with the doors shut. It made for an unsettling atmosphere as we ventured deeper into the heart of the fort.


At one point, I found myself alone in a tunnel while the rest of the group explored the infamous Ghost Tunnel. It was here that I felt an undeniable sense of being watched, a feeling that’s hard to shake in such an isolated place. Later, I learned that the others had heard a strange humming in the Ghost Tunnel, further intensifying the sense that something was observing us from the shadows.


Feeling of being seen and watched

A Glimpse of the Unseen


As the investigation unfolded, we turned to our equipment to help capture any signs of paranormal activity. The group relied on EMF meters, cat balls, and cameras to monitor fluctuations and detect movement. The camera footage revealed an array of orbs, many of which were likely natural, though one distinct “string orb” caught my attention, as it moved unlike the others.


An unexpected encounter came through the Estes method, where we connected with what seemed to be French spirits. This discovery was both surprising and fascinating; a recent search revealed that many French troops were evacuated to Weymouth during World War II after the Dunkirk operation. Could these spirits have been connected to that tumultuous time? The fort’s layered history seemed to invite such connections, reminding us that each corner holds stories from different eras.


Reflections and Lessons Learned


Reflecting on the experience, it was a night filled with both historical intrigue and ghostly surprises. While we encountered numerous cold spots and mysterious orbs, the feelings of being watched and the humming in the Ghost Tunnel were moments I’ll remember. In hindsight, more EVP sessions could have been beneficial, especially in rooms where the air felt heavy with energy.


Nothe Fort offered an unforgettable ghost-hunting experience, blending the thrill of paranormal investigation with the weight of history. Each step felt like walking through time, with the fort’s past and its phantoms quietly coexisting. Whether you’re a seasoned investigator or new to the world of ghost hunting, Nothe Fort is a must-visit, where history and mystery intertwine.



Closing Position


Our night at Nothe Fort left me with a deeper appreciation for the spirits that may still linger there. The fort’s charm lies not only in its preserved artifacts but in the unexplained moments that bring its stories to life. If you’re drawn to the unknown, join us on our next ghost hunt and see if you, too, can feel the presence of those who never left.


Are you ready to step into history’s shadow?


If you would like to read more about the Fort and its history, there is a fantastic blog here.

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