Established 1882

Built in 1882 as a former coastal defence installation to defend Newcastle against a possible Russian attack, Fort Scratchley is now a museum. It is located in Newcastle East, a suburb of Newcastle, New South Wales in Australia. The Fort’s guns were not fired in anger until 8 June 1942 during the shelling of Newcastle. The Australian Army left the site in 1972. Photo: University of Newcastle, Ralph Snowball Collection. 

Guided Tours

Guided tours are led by passionate Fort Scratchley Historical Society volunteers with a wealth of knowledge about the site.

Visit the Parade and Ceremony Grounds, galleries and museum collections, learn about our historic guns – there’s also a shop with ice creams and drinks, souvenirs and gifts.

Tunnel Tours

The Tunnel Tour provides unique insight into the history of the site.

Individuals, families and groups of LESS than 12 people can purchase tickets at the Fort Scratchley shop.

Schools, clubs or other social groups of 12 or more people should email booking requests.

Tours are offered at regular intervals each day the Fort is open: 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.10pm 1:40pm, 2.30pm.

The tour duration is 60 minutes, we recommend you allow 90 minutes on site.

Unfortunately, due to the narrow stairs and hallways, the tour is unsuitable for wheelchairs, walkers, prams & strollers.

 

Tour Prices

Adult $14.00
Children 4 -14 yrs (under 4yrs free) $7.50
Concession $9.50
Family (2 adults + 2 children) $36.50
Infants* Free
Carers* Free

 

Visit

Fort Scratchley is open 10am – 4pm six days per week – closed Tuesdays.

You can experience the field gun firing at 1pm each day, except Tuesdays.

Fort Scratchley Historic Site is located at Nobbys Road, Newcastle. There is limited parking available on site.

As well as our incredible historic Fort, you can enjoy spectacular views up the Hunter River, across the City of Newcastle, Nobbys Beach and up the coast toward Port Stephens.

Fort Scratchley also hosts special events and is an idyllic location for your special occasion.