Ever dreamt of owning your own private island, complete with a nightclub, spa, and a history steeped in espionage and science fiction?
An extraordinary opportunity has surfaced in the British property market that might just be your ticket to living out those Bond villain fantasies – or perhaps even a Doctor Who adventure.
No Man’s Land Fort, a colossal Victorian-era sea fortress nestled between Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight, is back on the market for offers exceeding $3.1m (£1.5m).
This isn’t just any property; it’s a 160-year-old architectural marvel, originally constructed to repel French invaders, now offering a lavish lifestyle far removed from its military origins.
Spanning an impressive 9197.4sq m across four levels, this formidable structure boasts 23 ensuite bedrooms, five bars, a restaurant, a spa, hot tubs, a sauna, and even its own nightclub. For the discerning buyer, a helipad ensures exclusive access to this secluded retreat on the Solent.
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No Man’s Fort in the Solent, UK. Photo: Colliers
In recent years, the forts have been put to a wide range of uses, from museums to weekend raves. Photo: Colliers
It also served as the backdrop for the classic 1972 Doctor Who story ‘The Sea Devils’, featuring Jon Pertwee as the Third Doctor.
Built in the 1860s as one of the “Palmerston Forts” commissioned by then-Prime Minister Lord Palmerston, the fort was designed with 15-foot granite walls and armour plating to defend against a potential invasion by Napoleon III’s forces.
Ironically, these forts were never attacked in their intended role, but they did serve during both World War I and World War II.
Beyond its rich military past, No Man’s Land Fort holds a special place in pop culture history, having served as a filming location for the classic 1972 Doctor Who story ‘The Sea Devils’, featuring Jon Pertwee as the Third Doctor.
In recent years, the forts have been put to a wide range of uses, from museums to weekend raves.
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Today, No Man’s Fort has been transformed into a lavish hotel. Photo: Colliers
The island comes with a helipad. Photo: Colliers
One of the property’s 23 bedrooms. Photo: Colliers
The fort underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2015, with nearly $16.7m (£8m) invested in its transformation into a luxury destination, alongside its nearby counterpart, Spitbank Fort. While it previously operated as a four-star hotel, it was sold at auction in June 2024 for $2.6m (£1.25m) to London-based Edward Ward, who described it as an “impulse buy”.
Now, Colliers, the commercial real estate firm, is managing the sale, exploring both freehold and leasehold options for the unique property.
Ed Jefferson from Colliers’ Hotels team noted that the fort presents a “rare opportunity to make a mark in a truly unique location,” highlighting its potential for various hospitality and leisure ventures due to its remote and exclusive setting.
Plans are also in place to construct a breakwater and harbour to enhance boat access.
This extraordinary floating mansion, once listed for $8.85m (£4.25m) in 2021, offers an unparalleled chance to own a piece of British history with all the modern luxuries.
English (US) · 