Overlooking Ryde Esplanade and Harbour with views across the Solent, this majestic building is claimed to have been commissioned by Henry VIII to defend the Spithead, Southampton Water and the Solent from the invasion by the Spanish Armada during his daughter’s reign.
There is a commodious landing place at the back of the Fountain Hotel. The Marine Parade... is a delightful and fashionable promenade,commanding a view of the entrance of the harbour, the Roadstead, the Solent, Calshot Castle, Southampton Water, and the opposite shore.