Fort Scratchley: A scenic vantage point with rich history

Once a vital defense observation lookout protecting Newcastle Harbour, Fort Scratchley is now an insightful museum.

Access the site for free and immerse yourself in Australia’s military history. Perched atop Flagstaff Hill, a prime surveillance point, it offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding city, Newcastle Harbour and the open sea.

Constructed in 1882 to guard against potential Russian naval threats, Fort Scratchley holds a unique place in history as the only Australian coastal battery to fire upon an enemy during World War II, repelling a Japanese submarine attack in 1942. A missile fired during the exchange reached the nearby suburb of Mayfield.

Explore at your own pace with a self-guided tour or enhance your visit by booking a guided tour led by the knowledgeable Fort Scratchley Historical Society, who bring the site’s rich history to life.

Challenge
“We learn everything from history, it helps humanity to avoid repeating mistakes.” Considering this opinion, what can we learn from Fort Scratchley?

Plan your visit
Find out more at fortscratchley.org.au

Feature image: Photo © Snowball, Ralph. Newcastle Harbour from Fort Scratchley. Norm Barney Photographic Collection, held by Cultural Collections at the University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia, November 1890. Public Domain.