Fireside Chats Return with a Journey into the Secrets of Bembridge Fort
Published 10:11 on 28 Jan 2026
Sea View Yacht Club is delighted to welcome members and guests to the next evening in our popular Fireside Chats Season Two, featuring a fascinating talk on one of the Islands most intriguing and long-hidden landmarks: Bembridge Fort.
Set against the cosy backdrop of a winter evening at the Club, this Fireside Chat will be led by well-known Island historian and author Tim Wander, who is closely involved in the remarkable revival of the fort. Perched high on Culver Down and closed to the public for much of its 150-year history, Bembridge Fort has played a quiet but vital role in the defence of the Isle of Wight — and the nation.
In this talk, Bembridge Fort: Past, Present and Future, Tim will explore how the fort evolved from a 19th-century defensive stronghold into a highly secret wartime installation, before lifting the lid on its extraordinary transformation today. Following a landmark agreement between the National Trust and the Bembridge Fort Trust, the site is now entering an exciting new phase, with ambitious plans to restore, conserve and reimagine this unique piece of Island heritage.
As with all Fireside Chats, the evening is designed to be relaxed and sociable. Guests will enjoy a two-course casual supper, with a hearty spaghetti bolognese main course, followed by a chocolate dessert or a fresh fruit platter, all included in the ticket price of £20.
The event begins at 19:00 and advance booking is essential. Fireside Chats are open to members, winter-reciprocal members, and guests of members. Link below to booking, remember to sign in to your account to book!
Related
- Fireside Chats: Season II : Fireside Chat; Season II - Bembridge Fort: Past, Present and Future (28 February, 19:00 - 22:00)