Man the Cannon at Redan Hill Fort, Aldershot
Aldershot is home to the British Army so it is fitting that it has a recreation area complete with a reconstructed fort and a 32-pounder cannon and the nearby Redan Hill Play Area.
The History of Redan Fort
During the Crimean War, the British had been impressed by the field fortifications used by the Russians.
These fortifications, called redans and redoubts, could be built quickly to provide an easily defendable position. Redans were V-shaped, often made from two embankments and a ditch, and had an open back. Redoubts were similar but fully enclosed.
Aldershot as a Training Camp
After returning from the Crimean War, the British Army developed Aldershot as their main training camp, building field forts for training.
Redan Hill Fortifications
Redan Hill Fortifications are a partial reconstruction of a training redoubt that was originally built here in 1856. This fort was used for training until the 1860s, when it was cut through by the railway.
The Cannon
At Redan Fort you can see a 32-pounder cannon, the structure of the fortifications and a tree covered hill.
We had fun playing hide and seek around the trees and it made a good picnic spot but there is not a huge amount to do here.
The Play Area
Redan Hill Play Area is just over the road from the fort and has equipment that includes swings and a slide.
Finding the Fort
Redan Fort is on Redan Road behind this black and yellow barrier.
The fort is at the top of a hill. The walk takes a few minutes and the hill is not steep.
Visit the Redan Hill Fortifications website
Further Information
Nearest Town: Aldershot
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU12 4SJ
Opens: Daily
Cost: Free
Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None.
How Long We Spent There: 1 hour
Buggies: Buggy friendly
Parking: We could not find a car park nearby but were able to park on Windmill Road (GU12 4NJ), which runs alongside the play area and fort.
Cost of Parking: Free
Wildlife You Might See: Birds and insects, especially grasshoppers.
Information Written: June 2017
Ratings
Our visit to Redan Hill Play Area and Redan Hill Fortifications and Play Area in Aldershot, also known as High Street Recreation Ground in Aldershot, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.
-
Fun
-
Condition
-
Value
-
Would We Go Back
You May Also Like
Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.
