Martello Tower No. 3 Copt Point
A historic Napoleonic-era defense tower offering panoramic sea views and a glimpse into coastal history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Martello Tower No. 3 Copt Point
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Napoleonic-era defense tower offering panoramic sea views and a glimpse into coastal history.
"Amazing to visit with lovely views and is well preserved."
Check Access Beforehand
Public access to the tower interior can be limited. Confirm opening times or special event dates for interior visits.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The surrounding area involves walking on coastal paths, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Vistas
Surrounding grounds
Panoramic views of the English Channel and the coastline, offering a glimpse into historical defense strategies.
Martello Tower Exterior
Copt Point
A well-preserved example of a Napoleonic-era defensive tower, offering a photogenic glimpse into military history.
Nearby Pathways
Along the coast
Scenic walking routes with opportunities to spot local flora and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
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Planning Your Visit
Access & Views
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Access Beforehand
Public access to the tower interior can be limited. Confirm opening times or special event dates for interior visits.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The surrounding area involves walking on coastal paths, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Appreciate the Views
Even if you can't enter, the elevated position offers fantastic sea views and a sense of history. :camerawithflash:
Beware of Bird Waste
Some visitors note bird waste inside the tower, so be mindful if exploring the exterior.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access Beforehand
Public access to the tower interior can be limited. Confirm opening times or special event dates for interior visits.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The surrounding area involves walking on coastal paths, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Appreciate the Views
Even if you can't enter, the elevated position offers fantastic sea views and a sense of history. :camerawithflash:
Beware of Bird Waste
Some visitors note bird waste inside the tower, so be mindful if exploring the exterior.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the stunning coastal views offered by Martello Tower No. 3. The well-preserved exterior and surrounding walking paths are highlights, providing a peaceful escape. However, limited public access to the tower's interior and occasional graffiti are noted drawbacks.
"Nice view , quite , I love Folkestone because you have sand beach and a lot of green places"
Seila T
"I had not been up to the tower in a long time. My husband and I decided to go for a walk and had a wonderful time exploring the area surrounding the tower. We were unable to access the tower but it would have been interesting to do so. The tower was built c1805 and proved useful in the defense of the coastline. The views are amazing and you are able to see Towers One and Two in the distance.
We enjoyed walking along the pathways and trying to identify the plants and other foliage. Well worth having a wander and enjoying the scenery."
marlene womack
"Lovely place! Amazing to visit-a bird of bird waste inside but it has lovely views and is well preserved. Found it a bit rude that the Police called my rucksack suspicious though :/"
Red’s Insane Urbex
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Martello Tower No. 3 is located on Copt Point in Folkestone. It's accessible via coastal paths. Driving is an option, with parking available nearby, though specific parking details might vary.
While direct public transport to the tower's immediate vicinity might be limited, local buses in Folkestone can get you close to the coastal area, from where you can walk.
Yes, cycling along the coastal paths is a great way to reach the tower, offering scenic views along the way. Ensure your bike is suitable for varied terrain. :bike:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, the exterior and surrounding grounds are freely accessible. Access to the interior of the tower may be restricted or require special arrangements.
The tower itself may not have fixed public opening hours. The surrounding coastal area is typically accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check for any scheduled open days.
There is usually no admission fee for viewing the exterior of Martello Tower No. 3 or walking the surrounding paths.
Public access to the interior of Martello Tower No. 3 is often limited. Some reviews mention it being closed or only accessible during specific events.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the surrounding cliffs, capturing the tower against the sea, and from the pathways looking back towards the coastline.
Yes, the tower is considered photogenic, especially its unique structure against the coastal backdrop. However, some graffiti has been noted around its base.
Late afternoon or early morning light often provides the most dramatic and flattering light for photographing the tower and the coastline. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy walking the coastal paths, taking in the sea views, and appreciating the historical architecture of the tower from the outside.
Basic facilities like benches might be available along the coastal paths. For more amenities, you would typically need to head back towards Folkestone town center.
Yes, it's ideal for a short visit, especially if you're exploring the Folkestone coastline. You can spend an hour or two enjoying the views and the walk.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the walk and the views as the primary family activities. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the tower are minimal. It's a great spot for a picnic with a historical backdrop. Ensure children are supervised, especially near cliff edges. :child:
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
Best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for optimal lighting. Be aware of potential graffiti around the base, which might require careful framing. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more immersive historical experience. :camerawithflash: :old_key:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Martello Towers
The design, originating from a tower in Corsica, proved effective due to its thick masonry walls and elevated gun platform, offering 360-degree protection. While No. 3 at Copt Point may not have seen direct combat, its presence was a crucial deterrent. Today, many Martello towers are preserved as historical landmarks, offering insights into military engineering and coastal defense of the era.
Preservation efforts have varied, with some towers being privately owned and refurbished, while others remain as historical markers. The tower's location on a high point was strategic, allowing for excellent visibility and firing range over the English Channel. Visitors can still appreciate this strategic placement and imagine its role in defending the coast.
Exploring the Copt Point Area
Visitors often combine a visit to the tower with a stroll along the coast, perhaps heading towards Folkestone's harbor or exploring other natural features of the area. The elevated position of the tower means that even from the surrounding grounds, you get a commanding perspective of the sea and the distant French coast on a clear day.
While the tower's interior access can be unpredictable, the outdoor experience is consistently rewarding. The pathways are generally easy to navigate, making it a pleasant excursion for most visitors. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections might be uneven.
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