Calshot Castle, Calshot, Hampshire
This castle was built in 1539-40 by Henry VIII. It was part of his network of coastal defences. He was defending against the threat of French and Spanish attacks. The castle was built to defend the entrance to Southampton Water. The castle has been altered at various times, including c1770, 1868-71 and in the 20th century. Three searchlights (Defence Electric Lights) were constructed in c1896. A coastal battery was built in 1902. The castle became part of RAF Calshot in the First and Second World Wars and continued to be used as a seaplane base until it closed in 1961. This site is managed by Hampshire County Council.
