Reigate Fort was constructed in 1898 as a result of a perceived threat to the British Empire by the French. It was part of a 72 mile long defence line from the North Downs to Essex and was one of 13 new military installations. However in as little as 8 years the Admiralty became confident, particularly with the launch of the new Dreadnought battleships, that the navy would fend off any invasion and the fort was decommissioned.
It subsequently had some use in WWI and is believed to have been used by the Canadian Army in WWII and has been designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument by English Heritage since 1972.
There are many tunnels in the area nearby, including a Command centre intended for use by Montgomery, and air raid shelters. The pillbox/shelter pictured is just across the way from the Fort.
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